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Tumult in Mecca: From Civil Servant to Global Business Adventurer
It's 1979. Henrik Bertelsen, a baby boomer, is an economist at the Ministry of Labour in Copenhagen. Married to Englishwoman Sammy, they pour their hearts into building a co-housing community in North Zealand while navigating the complex process of adopting a child from Indonesia. Henrik craves a period of undisturbed stability to secure his career as a civil servant.
Unexpectedly, he is asked to renovate and manage hospital kitchens in Saudi Arabia. His inner adventurer awakens, and with a short leave of absence from the ministry, he seizes the opportunity. The project escalates, and suddenly, he is caught in an armed religious uprising in Mecca. Trapped between rebels and police, Henrik is in trouble.
He manages to escape and is whisked out of the country. As he catches his breath, an American computer company offers him a lucrative job, setting his life on an entirely new path.
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★★★★★
"It is an excellent book! I felt thoroughly entertained and sensed Henrik Bertelsen sitting next to me, telling me about his remarkable experiences."
- Rikke Sommer
★★★★★
"Tumult in Mecca” is both funny and exciting. Hard to put down.
- Per Steen Pedersen
★★★★★
"A splendid story about seizing opportunities when they present themselves. Daring to plunge into deep water far from shore and learning to swim. The storytelling jumps in time and provides insight into the main character's sometimes surprising and risky choices."
- Esben Stubager
★★★★★
"Henrik Bertelsen is a child of the '60s who seeks the balance between his ideals and his adventurous spirit. Building co-housing communities and making adoptions are costly, and money must be made. His reflections, quirky analyses, and practical approach to his work at the ministry and the project in the Middle East create a highly entertaining narrative."
- Tine Curtis
Unexpectedly, he is asked to renovate and manage hospital kitchens in Saudi Arabia. His inner adventurer awakens, and with a short leave of absence from the ministry, he seizes the opportunity. The project escalates, and suddenly, he is caught in an armed religious uprising in Mecca. Trapped between rebels and police, Henrik is in trouble.
He manages to escape and is whisked out of the country. As he catches his breath, an American computer company offers him a lucrative job, setting his life on an entirely new path.
-----
★★★★★
"It is an excellent book! I felt thoroughly entertained and sensed Henrik Bertelsen sitting next to me, telling me about his remarkable experiences."
- Rikke Sommer
★★★★★
"Tumult in Mecca” is both funny and exciting. Hard to put down.
- Per Steen Pedersen
★★★★★
"A splendid story about seizing opportunities when they present themselves. Daring to plunge into deep water far from shore and learning to swim. The storytelling jumps in time and provides insight into the main character's sometimes surprising and risky choices."
- Esben Stubager
★★★★★
"Henrik Bertelsen is a child of the '60s who seeks the balance between his ideals and his adventurous spirit. Building co-housing communities and making adoptions are costly, and money must be made. His reflections, quirky analyses, and practical approach to his work at the ministry and the project in the Middle East create a highly entertaining narrative."
- Tine Curtis
- GenresHistorical Fiction
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2024
17 people are currently reading
509 people want to read
About the author
Hans Peter Bech
13 books45 followersHans Peter Bech holds an MSc in Economics from the University of Copenhagen and has established himself as a leading voice in the field of international business development, particularly within the software industry. As a keynote speaker, consultant, and blogger, Hans Peter has shared his insights and expertise with a global audience, helping companies navigate the complexities of expanding their operations across borders.
In addition to his work in business development, Hans Peter is a bestselling author, known for his thought-provoking writings on the intersection of business and technology. His most recent literary achievement is the novel 'Tumult in Mecca', published in 2024. This work marks the beginning of 'The Henrik Bertelsen Saga', a compelling series that blends rich storytelling with profound reflections on the human condition.
Hans Peter's diverse career and deep knowledge make him a sought-after expert and a captivating author, whose work continues to resonate with readers and professionals alike.
In addition to his work in business development, Hans Peter is a bestselling author, known for his thought-provoking writings on the intersection of business and technology. His most recent literary achievement is the novel 'Tumult in Mecca', published in 2024. This work marks the beginning of 'The Henrik Bertelsen Saga', a compelling series that blends rich storytelling with profound reflections on the human condition.
Hans Peter's diverse career and deep knowledge make him a sought-after expert and a captivating author, whose work continues to resonate with readers and professionals alike.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
September 4, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed "Tumult in Mecca." The author’s writing is engaging and accessible, making it an easy read. Interestingly, the book also provides valuable (and understandable) insights into tendering for projects, which could also appeal to a business-oriented audience.
One of the features of "Tumult in Mecca" is the detailed narrative. Although the author claims it’s fiction, you are left with a feeling that it must have happened—a dilemma to ponder. The book's structure, with its short chapters and clear subheadings, keeps the reader on track. Additionally, there is humour interwoven throughout the text.
Overall, “Tumult in Mecca” is a really enjoyable read.
One of the features of "Tumult in Mecca" is the detailed narrative. Although the author claims it’s fiction, you are left with a feeling that it must have happened—a dilemma to ponder. The book's structure, with its short chapters and clear subheadings, keeps the reader on track. Additionally, there is humour interwoven throughout the text.
Overall, “Tumult in Mecca” is a really enjoyable read.
September 2, 2024
In "Tumult in Mecca," Hans Peter Bech showcases his exceptional storytelling abilities, taking readers on a captivating journey that introduces us to Henrik Bertelsen, an unassuming Danish civil servant whose life is forever changed by a single, unexpected opportunity.
From the outset, Bertelsen's aspirations seem modest – a stable job, a loving family, and the comfort of a close-knit community. As the story unfolds, we find ourselves caught in the midst of a religious uprising, with Bertelsen is trapped between rebels and police, fighting for his life.
I couldn’t put the book down and I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys a good adventure novel.
From the outset, Bertelsen's aspirations seem modest – a stable job, a loving family, and the comfort of a close-knit community. As the story unfolds, we find ourselves caught in the midst of a religious uprising, with Bertelsen is trapped between rebels and police, fighting for his life.
I couldn’t put the book down and I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys a good adventure novel.
August 26, 2024
"Tumult in Mecca" explores several themes that resonate deeply with a broad audience. The novel is a tribute to Nordic culture and the community model that combines individual freedom with a robust social infrastructure. It highlights the opportunities and security provided by this system, enabling individuals like the protagonist, Henrik Bertelsen, to take risks and explore new frontiers without the constant fear of financial ruin.
The book also delves into the personal and professional dilemmas individuals face striving for fulfilment and success. Henrik's journey is marked by a series of challenges and decisions that reflect the universal struggle to balance ambition, family, and personal happiness. His story is one of resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of meaning in a rapidly changing world.
Set between Denmark and Saudi Arabia, Henrik will take you on a unique, personal journey.
The book also delves into the personal and professional dilemmas individuals face striving for fulfilment and success. Henrik's journey is marked by a series of challenges and decisions that reflect the universal struggle to balance ambition, family, and personal happiness. His story is one of resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of meaning in a rapidly changing world.
Set between Denmark and Saudi Arabia, Henrik will take you on a unique, personal journey.
November 18, 2024
A riveting journey from civil servant to global adventurer, Tumult in Mecca is a fascinating dive into the life of Henrik Bertelsen, a Danish economist turned international businessman. Set in 1979, the book chronicles Henrik's unexpected transition from his stable career in Denmark to the vibrant and unpredictable world of managing hospital kitchens in Saudi Arabia.
Hans Peter Bech masterfully captures the tension, humor, and cultural nuances of navigating such a dramatic change. The book also delves into Henrik's personal life—his efforts to build a cohousing community, his marriage, and the challenges of adopting a child—all while adapting to the whirlwind of international business.
The narrative is engaging and reflective, offering not only a glimpse into Henrik's personal growth but also a snapshot of an era marked by significant global shifts. It's a story about resilience, the courage to embrace change, and the lessons learned when life doesn't go as planned.
For fans of memoirs and cross-cultural stories, this is an inspiring read that sets the stage for the rest of the series exploring Henrik’s adventurous career and personal life.
Hans Peter Bech masterfully captures the tension, humor, and cultural nuances of navigating such a dramatic change. The book also delves into Henrik's personal life—his efforts to build a cohousing community, his marriage, and the challenges of adopting a child—all while adapting to the whirlwind of international business.
The narrative is engaging and reflective, offering not only a glimpse into Henrik's personal growth but also a snapshot of an era marked by significant global shifts. It's a story about resilience, the courage to embrace change, and the lessons learned when life doesn't go as planned.
For fans of memoirs and cross-cultural stories, this is an inspiring read that sets the stage for the rest of the series exploring Henrik’s adventurous career and personal life.
September 12, 2024
A very enjoyable read, written in a very accessible style.
Henrik Bertelsen is doing ‘very nicely, thankyou’, enjoying his comfortable life in Copenhagen, a good steady job, a lovely young wife and the happy prospect of a new addition to the family. Who could want more?
Henrik is not a man who wants to stand still and when unexpected opportunities present themselves, he finds himself unable to resist. Opportunities that will expand his knowledge and experience of the Business World, taking him to foreign lands, with a very different culture, beliefs and behaviours, catapulting him into the ever changing world of the 1970’s. Henrik’s story gives a detailed insight into life in a liberal, western society, as opposed to the life, business and politics in an Islamic Saudi Arabia, inadvertently finding himself in the midst of a horrifying and violent incident.
The ending left me hoping for a sequel…..!
Henrik Bertelsen is doing ‘very nicely, thankyou’, enjoying his comfortable life in Copenhagen, a good steady job, a lovely young wife and the happy prospect of a new addition to the family. Who could want more?
Henrik is not a man who wants to stand still and when unexpected opportunities present themselves, he finds himself unable to resist. Opportunities that will expand his knowledge and experience of the Business World, taking him to foreign lands, with a very different culture, beliefs and behaviours, catapulting him into the ever changing world of the 1970’s. Henrik’s story gives a detailed insight into life in a liberal, western society, as opposed to the life, business and politics in an Islamic Saudi Arabia, inadvertently finding himself in the midst of a horrifying and violent incident.
The ending left me hoping for a sequel…..!
September 16, 2024
An in-depth and intriguing insight into the world of international business and cultural barriers, as a Danish professional and his business partner attempt to sell their services to counterparts in Saudi Arabia, amidst religious factional turmoil at the end of the 1970s. It is an eye-opening exposé of a country and a region which has been changed dramatically since events at that time, and hints at the long-lasting effects on global politics and terrorism today. But at the time, as outlined in Hans Peter Bech’s exceptionally well-written, semi-fictional account, there was a certain air of naivete about people and their knowledge of Islamic fundamentalism and sectarian conflict; now, of course, sadly we are all much more informed. I say semi-fictional because, while the story and the characters are fabricated by the author, events and situations depicted were real, including the shocking events later in the book; Bech discerns between them in the book’s epilogue (which I felt might perhaps more accurately be called an afterword).
In my opinion, this book will appeal to those who have an interest in transnational business or the sharia politics of the Middle East around that time, and how they have been shaped since. Most of the rest of us, if I’m truly honest, will probably consider the book something of a slow burner, or perhaps of niche interest. Of course, what it does it does extremely well, and there is no doubt that Bech is a tremendously good writer, though it has to be considered that this is his first foray into fiction, his previous books all being non-fiction business books, and you can see how heavily this has influenced the chosen genre. Obviously I don’t criticize this, for it is his area of expertise and the subject matter he wishes to write about; I’m just advising that if it is not to your taste, you may find it a little slippery to grip to, for dramatic events and actions come very late in the book. If, however, it is your cup of tea – and I believe it will appeal to many – then it is a superb piece of corporate literary fiction. The minutiae of bureaucratic and operational detail is very fine indeed, and no stone is left unturned in the painstaking negotiations of the characters – although, if I’m honest, I do wonder if one or two decisions made by the Danish chancers would have worked in their favour, and presented them as the top-level professionals they were at times perceived as; I did wonder at the credibility in one or two of these moments. That said, I’ve no wish to offend the author, for I have no idea how much of the book is biographical, though I suspect a fair amount of it. On top of that, we are following the main protagonist on his life journey back in Denmark generally, including his relationship, his studies, his professional progress and adoption of children. Amidst all this, a large part of the premise is that, for some reason, the character is desperate to visit Mecca – a decision he comes to regret. It isn’t as long as it sounds, but you certainly feel you know every aspect of Henrik’s life.
Expect a well-written book, a little – though not particularly profound – background into Saudi religion and politics, and drama in the mainly commercial sense, by an author who absolutely knows what he’s doing.
In my opinion, this book will appeal to those who have an interest in transnational business or the sharia politics of the Middle East around that time, and how they have been shaped since. Most of the rest of us, if I’m truly honest, will probably consider the book something of a slow burner, or perhaps of niche interest. Of course, what it does it does extremely well, and there is no doubt that Bech is a tremendously good writer, though it has to be considered that this is his first foray into fiction, his previous books all being non-fiction business books, and you can see how heavily this has influenced the chosen genre. Obviously I don’t criticize this, for it is his area of expertise and the subject matter he wishes to write about; I’m just advising that if it is not to your taste, you may find it a little slippery to grip to, for dramatic events and actions come very late in the book. If, however, it is your cup of tea – and I believe it will appeal to many – then it is a superb piece of corporate literary fiction. The minutiae of bureaucratic and operational detail is very fine indeed, and no stone is left unturned in the painstaking negotiations of the characters – although, if I’m honest, I do wonder if one or two decisions made by the Danish chancers would have worked in their favour, and presented them as the top-level professionals they were at times perceived as; I did wonder at the credibility in one or two of these moments. That said, I’ve no wish to offend the author, for I have no idea how much of the book is biographical, though I suspect a fair amount of it. On top of that, we are following the main protagonist on his life journey back in Denmark generally, including his relationship, his studies, his professional progress and adoption of children. Amidst all this, a large part of the premise is that, for some reason, the character is desperate to visit Mecca – a decision he comes to regret. It isn’t as long as it sounds, but you certainly feel you know every aspect of Henrik’s life.
Expect a well-written book, a little – though not particularly profound – background into Saudi religion and politics, and drama in the mainly commercial sense, by an author who absolutely knows what he’s doing.
December 18, 2025
TUMULT IN MEKKA
Technologie trifft auf Kultur - dazwischen steht der Mensch
Ein Projekt zur Modernisierung von Krankenhausküchen in Saudi-Arabien.
Drei dänische Optimisten machen sich auf den Weg.
Schon nach wenigen gelesenen Seiten offenbart der Roman eine "normale und sachliche" Schilderung der Dinge und stellt sich damit gleich als solide und glaubwürdig dar. Nichts wirkt übertrieben oder künstlich konstruiert.
Zudem besticht die Erzählung durch eine beispielhaft exzellente Sprache und Ausdruck.
Der Inhalt der Geschichte punktet durch hohe Detailgenauigkeit der betriebswirtschaftlichen Zusammenhänge in der Aufbau- und Ablauforganisation des Küchenprojekts. Durch die Detailtreue der betriebswirtschaftlichen Ansätze zum Projekt wirkt der Roman fast autobiografisch und bekommt dadurch eine ganz besondere Gewichtung und Brisanz. Als Leser gewinnt man den Eindruck, das hat der Autor selbst erlebt.
Das Ganze entwickelt sich zu einer interessanten und spannenden Schilderung wie ein solches Projekt mit den vorhandenen Ressourcen bewältigt werden könnte. Auch die guten Gespräche zwischen den dänischen Experten und den saudischen Partnern bilden zusätzlich eine angenehme Basis für das Zusammenspiel der Kulturen. Weitere künstlich erzeugte spannungsbildende Elemente braucht es nicht, um sich auf jedes weitere Kapitel zu freuen.
Die geschilderte ausgefeilte Projektanalyse die von dem dänischen Experten-Team vorgenommen wird, könnte bevorzugt eine Leserschaft ansprechen, die Verständnis, Freude und Interesse für betriebswirtschaftliche Abläufe hat. Um noch etwas weiter zu gehen: angehende betriebliche Organisatoren könnten die Schilderungen in diesem Buch durchaus als beispielhaftes Lehrstück der betrieblichen Organisation auffassen.
Insgesamt beinhaltet das Buch eine leicht zu lesende und verständliche Lektüre mit solidem Unterhaltungswert. Durch die vom Protagonisten Henrik zu Anfang erwähnten familiären Schilderungen aus seiner Kindheit und im Umgang und Zusammenleben mit seinen Brüdern entsteht schnell eine Normalität und Beziehung ihm. Man wird schnell "warm" mit ihm. Man wünscht ihm und seinen Gefährten in Saudi-Arabien, den Tumult in Mekka heil zu überstehen und freut sich mit ihm, wenn ihm und seiner Frau die ersehnte Adoption eines indonesischen Kindes ermöglicht wird.
Rundum ein gelungenes Buch, … und ja, weil es so voller Details steckt, habe ich es gleich zweimal hintereinander gelesen.
Technologie trifft auf Kultur - dazwischen steht der Mensch
Ein Projekt zur Modernisierung von Krankenhausküchen in Saudi-Arabien.
Drei dänische Optimisten machen sich auf den Weg.
Schon nach wenigen gelesenen Seiten offenbart der Roman eine "normale und sachliche" Schilderung der Dinge und stellt sich damit gleich als solide und glaubwürdig dar. Nichts wirkt übertrieben oder künstlich konstruiert.
Zudem besticht die Erzählung durch eine beispielhaft exzellente Sprache und Ausdruck.
Der Inhalt der Geschichte punktet durch hohe Detailgenauigkeit der betriebswirtschaftlichen Zusammenhänge in der Aufbau- und Ablauforganisation des Küchenprojekts. Durch die Detailtreue der betriebswirtschaftlichen Ansätze zum Projekt wirkt der Roman fast autobiografisch und bekommt dadurch eine ganz besondere Gewichtung und Brisanz. Als Leser gewinnt man den Eindruck, das hat der Autor selbst erlebt.
Das Ganze entwickelt sich zu einer interessanten und spannenden Schilderung wie ein solches Projekt mit den vorhandenen Ressourcen bewältigt werden könnte. Auch die guten Gespräche zwischen den dänischen Experten und den saudischen Partnern bilden zusätzlich eine angenehme Basis für das Zusammenspiel der Kulturen. Weitere künstlich erzeugte spannungsbildende Elemente braucht es nicht, um sich auf jedes weitere Kapitel zu freuen.
Die geschilderte ausgefeilte Projektanalyse die von dem dänischen Experten-Team vorgenommen wird, könnte bevorzugt eine Leserschaft ansprechen, die Verständnis, Freude und Interesse für betriebswirtschaftliche Abläufe hat. Um noch etwas weiter zu gehen: angehende betriebliche Organisatoren könnten die Schilderungen in diesem Buch durchaus als beispielhaftes Lehrstück der betrieblichen Organisation auffassen.
Insgesamt beinhaltet das Buch eine leicht zu lesende und verständliche Lektüre mit solidem Unterhaltungswert. Durch die vom Protagonisten Henrik zu Anfang erwähnten familiären Schilderungen aus seiner Kindheit und im Umgang und Zusammenleben mit seinen Brüdern entsteht schnell eine Normalität und Beziehung ihm. Man wird schnell "warm" mit ihm. Man wünscht ihm und seinen Gefährten in Saudi-Arabien, den Tumult in Mekka heil zu überstehen und freut sich mit ihm, wenn ihm und seiner Frau die ersehnte Adoption eines indonesischen Kindes ermöglicht wird.
Rundum ein gelungenes Buch, … und ja, weil es so voller Details steckt, habe ich es gleich zweimal hintereinander gelesen.
November 13, 2024
This novel will captivate everyone who, like me, is a fan of exciting and entertaining stories -especially those that broaden one's horizons without requiring you to wade through one of those thick, admittedly often magnificent historical novels, for which I simply lack the time and patience.
That the young Henrik takes me along on his business trips to the Middle East of the 1970s and 80s, showing me how intelligence, hard work, and dedication can turn a project from the desert sands into reality—that, I find truly inspiring. This is one of the central messages of the novel: Why not seize a crazy and spontaneous opportunity (here: a project request) and step out of your comfort zone? It’s exactly what we always aim to do! So, into this business adventure we go, full of surprises and twists … right up to the grand drama at the end of the book, which genuinely left me breathless.
That our hero does not lose himself in this world of temptations but instead - thank goodness - makes it home safely in the end, is, I believe, thanks to Sammy. His wife, whom he loves above all else, and he dream of adopting a child. This is exactly what makes the story so special for me: He is one of us. He works hard, dreams of success and love, makes plans, and then everything turns out differently.
As for the writing style, I can say this: Right from the first pages, you can tell that the author is an experienced writer. His nonfiction books are bestsellers in his homeland of Denmark, and in his debut novel, he writes with precision and lightness. This gives hope that this saga will soon continue with a second volume.
That the young Henrik takes me along on his business trips to the Middle East of the 1970s and 80s, showing me how intelligence, hard work, and dedication can turn a project from the desert sands into reality—that, I find truly inspiring. This is one of the central messages of the novel: Why not seize a crazy and spontaneous opportunity (here: a project request) and step out of your comfort zone? It’s exactly what we always aim to do! So, into this business adventure we go, full of surprises and twists … right up to the grand drama at the end of the book, which genuinely left me breathless.
That our hero does not lose himself in this world of temptations but instead - thank goodness - makes it home safely in the end, is, I believe, thanks to Sammy. His wife, whom he loves above all else, and he dream of adopting a child. This is exactly what makes the story so special for me: He is one of us. He works hard, dreams of success and love, makes plans, and then everything turns out differently.
As for the writing style, I can say this: Right from the first pages, you can tell that the author is an experienced writer. His nonfiction books are bestsellers in his homeland of Denmark, and in his debut novel, he writes with precision and lightness. This gives hope that this saga will soon continue with a second volume.
November 20, 2024
Hans Peter Bech’s Tumult in Mecca is a riveting introduction to The Henrik Bertelsen Saga. It traces its protagonist’s transformation from a Danish civil servant to a global business adventurer. The story explores Henrik’s journey, weaving a tapestry of personal ambition, cultural discovery, and high-stakes challenges in an ever-changing international landscape.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of global business and diplomacy, the book follows Henrik’s growth as he steps outside the predictable confines of civil service into a world brimming with risk and opportunity. Bech’s writing is immersive and thought-provoking, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of adapting to new cultures while navigating moral and ethical dilemmas in high-level negotiations.
Tumult in Mecca offers a captivating mix of introspection and action for adventure and personal transformation fans. It’s more than a business tale—it’s a story about resilience, adaptability, and the courage to chase a vision despite obstacles.
As the first installment of Henrik’s saga, it sets the stage beautifully for what promises to be an extraordinary journey. It is highly recommended for readers seeking inspiration and excitement.
I received a copy of the book for the tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of global business and diplomacy, the book follows Henrik’s growth as he steps outside the predictable confines of civil service into a world brimming with risk and opportunity. Bech’s writing is immersive and thought-provoking, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of adapting to new cultures while navigating moral and ethical dilemmas in high-level negotiations.
Tumult in Mecca offers a captivating mix of introspection and action for adventure and personal transformation fans. It’s more than a business tale—it’s a story about resilience, adaptability, and the courage to chase a vision despite obstacles.
As the first installment of Henrik’s saga, it sets the stage beautifully for what promises to be an extraordinary journey. It is highly recommended for readers seeking inspiration and excitement.
I received a copy of the book for the tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
September 10, 2024
I am a big fan of Ken Follett (read all his books) and when I was looking for a novel based on historical events I came across this highly recommended book.
It’s set in 1979. Henrik Bertelsen, the protagonist, represents an ordinary individual thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Born in post-WWII Denmark, Henrik's life is initially stable and predictable: he holds a respectable position at the Ministry of Labour, teaches macroeconomics at the University of Copenhagen, and is happily married to Samantha, with whom he is adopting a child from Indonesia. They are also moving into a co-housing community in North Zealand, which they helped establish. However, an unexpected opportunity to join a business project in Saudi Arabia disrupts the family's stability. Henrik's adventurous spirit compels him to seize this chance, even as the project demands more of his time and threatens his life in Denmark. The novel intertwines Henrik’s personal story with the broader historical context, particularly the global upheaval of 1979. His involvement in the Saudi project becomes critical during the November 1979 religious uprising in Mecca, placing him in grave danger.
highly recommended!
It’s set in 1979. Henrik Bertelsen, the protagonist, represents an ordinary individual thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Born in post-WWII Denmark, Henrik's life is initially stable and predictable: he holds a respectable position at the Ministry of Labour, teaches macroeconomics at the University of Copenhagen, and is happily married to Samantha, with whom he is adopting a child from Indonesia. They are also moving into a co-housing community in North Zealand, which they helped establish. However, an unexpected opportunity to join a business project in Saudi Arabia disrupts the family's stability. Henrik's adventurous spirit compels him to seize this chance, even as the project demands more of his time and threatens his life in Denmark. The novel intertwines Henrik’s personal story with the broader historical context, particularly the global upheaval of 1979. His involvement in the Saudi project becomes critical during the November 1979 religious uprising in Mecca, placing him in grave danger.
highly recommended!
November 29, 2024
Tumult in Mecca is book 1 in The Henrik Bertelsen Saga by the author. Henrik is our MMC, he was an economist in 1979 in Denmark. Henrik has an opportunity to go on a trip and he does in the book. He is very close to one of his brothers, Jakob. Jakob calls with a project in Saudi Arabia. The author takes us thru Henrik's life from when he was a child up to current day in the first few pages so you really get a feel of who Henrik is. Henrik is in the middle of a housing situation and also adopting a child with his wife Sammy when Jakob asks him to go to Saudi Arabia for just a few days, since he is fluent in English.
The author wrote a very compelling historical based fictional thriller. The author has definitely traveled to Mecca and that region at one point. Then Henrik and his fellow travelers run into some trouble when first they have to hand over their passports to someone in Saudi Arabia. That is something that I would be hesitant about as that is a big no-no to any foreigners. I really enjoyed the author's research or personal experience that he put into this book. It was well written!
The author wrote a very compelling historical based fictional thriller. The author has definitely traveled to Mecca and that region at one point. Then Henrik and his fellow travelers run into some trouble when first they have to hand over their passports to someone in Saudi Arabia. That is something that I would be hesitant about as that is a big no-no to any foreigners. I really enjoyed the author's research or personal experience that he put into this book. It was well written!
December 3, 2024
Tumult in Mecca: From Civil Servant to Global Business Adventurer: Henrik Bertelsen's Unexpected Journey is the first book I have had the pleasure in reading by author Hans Peter Bech. It, also, begins his The Henrik Bertelsen Saga. It transported me to the late nineteen seventies Copenhagen, Denmark and meeting up with Henrik Bertelsen. He only wants peace and tranquility with his wife and family. However, he gets thrown into the change of the world and having to adjust to new changes. I admired his courage and bravery in adjusting to a new path in life. I enjoyed taking this adventure with him, learning some life lessons, and being inspired by how he chooses to be resilient. I loved the use of humor within the pages that made me smile from time to time. I thought the book was an inspiring one.
I am going to give Tumult in Mecca: From Civil Servant to Global Business Adventurer: Henrik Bertelsen's Unexpected Journey four stars. I believe fans of historical fiction will enjoy as much as me if not more. I would be interested in reading more books like this one from Hans Peter Bech in the near future. As well as, reading the next installment from The Henrik Bertelsen Saga.
I received a paperback copy of Hans Peter Bech's Tumult in Mecca: From Civil Servant to Global Business Adventurer: Henrik Bertelsen's Unexpected Journey from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am going to give Tumult in Mecca: From Civil Servant to Global Business Adventurer: Henrik Bertelsen's Unexpected Journey four stars. I believe fans of historical fiction will enjoy as much as me if not more. I would be interested in reading more books like this one from Hans Peter Bech in the near future. As well as, reading the next installment from The Henrik Bertelsen Saga.
I received a paperback copy of Hans Peter Bech's Tumult in Mecca: From Civil Servant to Global Business Adventurer: Henrik Bertelsen's Unexpected Journey from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
September 9, 2024
This is a marvellous book. A business book disguised as a historical novel, well-written and erudite, Tumult in Mecca paints a compelling picture of what kept us busy in 1979, at least those of us looking to build a life amidst social-economic challenges, international upheaval and the rise of militant Islam, and the advent of technology changing the world forever. If this is too much for you, no worries, this book offers a tremendous read, page after page until you reach the last one, leaving you, as with any great story, wanting for more.
October 11, 2024
‘Tumult in Mecca’ marks the debut novel of accomplished non-fiction author Hans Peter Bech, known for his insightful works on international business development. This novel is the first in an anticipated series of eight, chronicling the life and adventures of protagonist, Henrik Bertelsen, a Dane who inadvertently finds himself navigating the tumultuous waves of the global business world. This series promises to be a captivating journey through the lens of a baby boomer, reflecting on the rapid transformations in society, culture, and industry over several decades. Recommended read!
September 10, 2024
Serious and humorous
The novel ‘Tumult in Mecca’ is both serious and humorous, the kind of solid, good story that can captivate most readers. It's a story of an ordinary man’s experiences in Saudi Arabia. Henrik Bertelsen's life seems to move along without major disruptions until his brother calls him. Then, the adventure begins.
A business project in Saudi Arabia unexpectedly takes the two brothers on an adventure into an entirely different culture—a real page-turner.
The novel ‘Tumult in Mecca’ is both serious and humorous, the kind of solid, good story that can captivate most readers. It's a story of an ordinary man’s experiences in Saudi Arabia. Henrik Bertelsen's life seems to move along without major disruptions until his brother calls him. Then, the adventure begins.
A business project in Saudi Arabia unexpectedly takes the two brothers on an adventure into an entirely different culture—a real page-turner.
November 12, 2024
Henrik Bertelsen takes the reader on a journey of adventure and endurance as he renovates hospital kitchens. When Henrik finds himself caught in a religious uprising he realises that he is in strife. The narrative is highly entertaining and I came to feel like I knew Henrik personally. He isn't afraid of taking a risk and the suprising adventures he has would leave any explorer excited. I felt breathless at times from the excitement and the anticipation was frightening.
September 28, 2024
A splendid story about seizing opportunities when they present themselves. Daring to plunge into deep water far from shore and learning to swim. The storytelling jumps in time and provides insight into the main character's sometimes surprising and risky choices."
September 25, 2024
An excellent book! I felt thoroughly entertained from start to finish and had the sense that Henrik Bertelsen was right beside me, sharing his unusual experiences.
August 30, 2024
Tumult in Mecca is a fascinating insight into 1970s Denmark and Saudi Arabia; they could hardly be more different. The book follows the protagonist Henrik Bertelson, an economist at the Ministry of Labour, who has the unexpected opportunity to bid for the renovation an management of hospital kitchens in Saudi Arabia. The tumult refers to an event (you'll have to read it to find out what) that leads to his rapid departure from Saudi, and while exciting, is not the best thing about the book. Henrik is married to an English nurse, Sammy, and they have a busy and complicated life. They are building a co-housing unit (you may have to be Danish to understand this concept), they are adopting a child from Indonesia and Henrik is being offered another job, he is not sure that he wants. It is the descriptions of their personal life, perhaps a partial mirror of the life of the author and his wife, that is the most interesting to me. And that gives more opportunity for a sequal, than if the Saudi adventure had taken centre stage.
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