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Tomb of Empires
Empires rise and fall. Some become legend, others myth, but most are lost to time.
Zaim, is prince of the Arabs, he governs the spice routes from Aden to Gaza. Loved by his friends, honest and brave, yet hated by his jealous brothers. He will meet the woman he loves, but she is not the woman he can marry, for she is sworn to his brother.
Daughter of an emperor, Apollonia is surrounded by wealth, yet her life is devoid of meaning. What faith she had, she lost – how can she know God when he is so far away? Now fate conspires against her in a loveless marriage to an Arab prince.
Chao is a matchless General in the Han Chinese army, grandson of legendary explorer Zhang Qian. Chao is sent on a mission to chart the route west but when he reaches the Arab city of Petra, he will need to use all his experience in its defence.
Destiny will bring these three together. There will be heroic deeds and ferocious battles, love will be earned and lost.
Beware, the Oracle will declare, ‘The day the dragon enters the falcon.’
For it will be a time for empires to fall.
A time for myth making.
A time for legends.
Zaim, is prince of the Arabs, he governs the spice routes from Aden to Gaza. Loved by his friends, honest and brave, yet hated by his jealous brothers. He will meet the woman he loves, but she is not the woman he can marry, for she is sworn to his brother.
Daughter of an emperor, Apollonia is surrounded by wealth, yet her life is devoid of meaning. What faith she had, she lost – how can she know God when he is so far away? Now fate conspires against her in a loveless marriage to an Arab prince.
Chao is a matchless General in the Han Chinese army, grandson of legendary explorer Zhang Qian. Chao is sent on a mission to chart the route west but when he reaches the Arab city of Petra, he will need to use all his experience in its defence.
Destiny will bring these three together. There will be heroic deeds and ferocious battles, love will be earned and lost.
Beware, the Oracle will declare, ‘The day the dragon enters the falcon.’
For it will be a time for empires to fall.
A time for myth making.
A time for legends.
290 pages, Paperback
Published November 5, 2024
1 person is currently reading
25 people want to read
About the author
Rehan Khan
18 books42 followersA keen observer of history and techno-science, Rehan Khan, has always been intrigued in how ideas and inventions move from one civilisation to the next, and how they change as they shift across different cultures.
He is the author of a Tomb of Empires (2024) a historical fiction set in 90BC in the Middle East, the Carnegie nominated A Tudor Turk trilogy (2019-2022) set in the Ottoman Empire and Tudor England, and the fantasy sci-fi series, Tales of Khayaal (2025) set on the Earth like planet of Ikleel. These gripping stories also ask readers to consider the role of virtue within the human story
He is the author of a Tomb of Empires (2024) a historical fiction set in 90BC in the Middle East, the Carnegie nominated A Tudor Turk trilogy (2019-2022) set in the Ottoman Empire and Tudor England, and the fantasy sci-fi series, Tales of Khayaal (2025) set on the Earth like planet of Ikleel. These gripping stories also ask readers to consider the role of virtue within the human story
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
January 5, 2025
Rehan Khan’s Tomb of Empires is a captivating historical fiction masterpiece that skillfully transports readers to the tumultuous first century BCE. Through intricate descriptions and engaging dialogue, Khan vividly recreates the political intrigue, cultural exchanges, and human struggles of the era. The novel’s historical depth is evident on every page, reflecting the author’s meticulous research and dedication to authenticity.
What sets Tomb of Empires apart is Khan’s ability to balance sweeping historical narratives with deeply personal stories. The characters feel real and grounded, their experiences seamlessly woven into the broader context of empires clashing for dominance. Whether exploring the strategies of the Seleucids, the resilience of the Nabataeans, or the grandeur of ancient cities, Khan’s prose breathes life into a world that often feels forgotten.
Thematically rich and stylistically elegant, the novel’s vivid imagery and attention to historical detail make it a rewarding read for lovers of historical fiction. Tomb of Empires not only entertains but also enlightens, offering a glimpse into a fascinating yet underexplored chapter of history. It’s a testament to Rehan Khan’s skill as a unique storyteller.
What sets Tomb of Empires apart is Khan’s ability to balance sweeping historical narratives with deeply personal stories. The characters feel real and grounded, their experiences seamlessly woven into the broader context of empires clashing for dominance. Whether exploring the strategies of the Seleucids, the resilience of the Nabataeans, or the grandeur of ancient cities, Khan’s prose breathes life into a world that often feels forgotten.
Thematically rich and stylistically elegant, the novel’s vivid imagery and attention to historical detail make it a rewarding read for lovers of historical fiction. Tomb of Empires not only entertains but also enlightens, offering a glimpse into a fascinating yet underexplored chapter of history. It’s a testament to Rehan Khan’s skill as a unique storyteller.
November 17, 2024
A beautiful and well researched book. The story is a journey of understanding the history of these ancient empires and the stories that unfold between the characters; their fears and their longing.
October 14, 2025
A brilliantly constructed, gripping read ..
It unfolds through a beautifully crafted plot where the tension builds relentlessly, culminating in a nerve-shredding final battle. Set against the backdrop of a fascinating era of empire and ambition, it explores a world where rival powers vie for control of the Arab-controlled spice trade. Many of the broader struggles of that time echo powerfully in today’s political landscape.
But at its core the story belongs to its compelling protagonists—who are striving to live in accordance with their values, and to find purpose and meaning amid the chaos of their lives.
It seems that whether you are a dashing Arab prince, a brave-hearted young Princess or a legendary warrior-General we all still have to deal with these same timeless and deeply human questions of moral integrity, meaning and purpose…
It unfolds through a beautifully crafted plot where the tension builds relentlessly, culminating in a nerve-shredding final battle. Set against the backdrop of a fascinating era of empire and ambition, it explores a world where rival powers vie for control of the Arab-controlled spice trade. Many of the broader struggles of that time echo powerfully in today’s political landscape.
But at its core the story belongs to its compelling protagonists—who are striving to live in accordance with their values, and to find purpose and meaning amid the chaos of their lives.
It seems that whether you are a dashing Arab prince, a brave-hearted young Princess or a legendary warrior-General we all still have to deal with these same timeless and deeply human questions of moral integrity, meaning and purpose…
November 4, 2025
As a historical fiction fan, Tomb of Empires was such a wonderful find — especially since it’s set in our region and rooted in antiquity.
The story beautifully intertwines history and myth, blending character growth with a spiritual journey that truly humanizes its protagonists.
Without giving too much away: I couldn’t stand the three brothers, but absolutely loved the Chinese Han crew. The “Traversing the Ocean” chapter was nothing short of epic. Would love a sequel with a voyage into the far east.
If you’re planning a trip to Petra or Jordan anytime soon, this is the perfect companion read.
The story beautifully intertwines history and myth, blending character growth with a spiritual journey that truly humanizes its protagonists.
Without giving too much away: I couldn’t stand the three brothers, but absolutely loved the Chinese Han crew. The “Traversing the Ocean” chapter was nothing short of epic. Would love a sequel with a voyage into the far east.
If you’re planning a trip to Petra or Jordan anytime soon, this is the perfect companion read.
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September 28, 2025Tomb of Empires is a sweeping, well-researched historical adventure, where Rehan Khan weaves together political intrigue, shifting empires, and human stories into a compelling tapestry. Prince Zaim, Apollonia, and General Chao’s journeys feel both personal and epic, balancing history with heart. While a few threads could have been woven tighter, the meticulous research and storytelling make this a rewarding read for lovers of immersive historical fiction.
September 8, 2025
The Tomb of Empires is a fantastic read.
From the blue waters of the Mediterranean to the mountain stronghold of Petra, we are introduced to so many intriguing characters, it was hard to put this book down.
The varying personalities across the characters kept me wanting to learn more about them and anticipating what they’ll do next.
I enjoyed how the story builds at a gradual pace introducing all the pivotal characters, all the while continuing to lead to the climax of the story.
While this is a stand alone book, I would absolutely love to read more about so many more characters in the book (…so did Achaeus, the Seleucid legend, make it to the imperial city of Chang’an ??)
A definite read!
From the blue waters of the Mediterranean to the mountain stronghold of Petra, we are introduced to so many intriguing characters, it was hard to put this book down.
The varying personalities across the characters kept me wanting to learn more about them and anticipating what they’ll do next.
I enjoyed how the story builds at a gradual pace introducing all the pivotal characters, all the while continuing to lead to the climax of the story.
While this is a stand alone book, I would absolutely love to read more about so many more characters in the book (…so did Achaeus, the Seleucid legend, make it to the imperial city of Chang’an ??)
A definite read!
February 17, 2025
Don’t talk to me, still trying to process how good this book was
November 23, 2024
This book was hard to put down! Apart from a riveting plot, it is also an interesting and informative work of historical fiction, which brings to life the vibrancy, beauty and cruelty of a particular time and place in history. I particularly loved the qualities of the heroic characters and the particular twists and turns of plot that brought them together.
It was really interesting to consider the values portrayed in the book, written at this time in history, about another one. Men of two totally different cultures that each other with compassion and respect and by the end, have each saved each other's lives. People of good character, even one from the "baddies", all end up fighting together for a common good that is higher than merely the strategies of their own states.
Highly Recommended!
It was really interesting to consider the values portrayed in the book, written at this time in history, about another one. Men of two totally different cultures that each other with compassion and respect and by the end, have each saved each other's lives. People of good character, even one from the "baddies", all end up fighting together for a common good that is higher than merely the strategies of their own states.
Highly Recommended!
November 17, 2024
From the blue waters of the Mediterranean to the mountain stronghold of Petra, we are introduced to so many intriguing characters, it was hard to put this book down.
The varying personalities across the characters kept me wanting to learn more about them and anticipating what they’ll do next.
I enjoyed how the story builds at a gradual pace introducing all the pivotal characters, all the while continuing to lead to the apex of the story.
While this is a stand alone book, I would absolutely love to read more about so many more characters in the book.
A definite read!
The varying personalities across the characters kept me wanting to learn more about them and anticipating what they’ll do next.
I enjoyed how the story builds at a gradual pace introducing all the pivotal characters, all the while continuing to lead to the apex of the story.
While this is a stand alone book, I would absolutely love to read more about so many more characters in the book.
A definite read!
January 6, 2025
Reading it felt like watching a riveting epic movie!
Brings to life a fascinating period of history in one of the richest geographic locations in historical events. Reading it feels like watching a riveting movie, unable to move your eyes away from the screen! Brings to life empires that thrived in ancient history in Alexandria, Jerusalem, Petra, and the Mediterranean Sea in a plot that includes human experience of friendship, conspiracy, battle, love, and wisdom.
Brings to life a fascinating period of history in one of the richest geographic locations in historical events. Reading it feels like watching a riveting movie, unable to move your eyes away from the screen! Brings to life empires that thrived in ancient history in Alexandria, Jerusalem, Petra, and the Mediterranean Sea in a plot that includes human experience of friendship, conspiracy, battle, love, and wisdom.
January 8, 2025
A must-read for historical fiction enthusiasts! The novel immerses readers in iconic settings, vividly bringing to life the clash of ancient empires.
The novel seamlessly blends themes of friendship, love, conspiracy, and war, while delving into the personal struggles of richly developed characters caught in a web of political intrigue.
The novel seamlessly blends themes of friendship, love, conspiracy, and war, while delving into the personal struggles of richly developed characters caught in a web of political intrigue.
January 6, 2025
Once again, Rehan Khan has been able to capture the imagination of a distant past woven within a historical backbone. The author keeps the reader engaged throughout the book. Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews