Amani’s Reviews > The Fortieth Door > Status Update

I know that it’s typical of both his class and the time period, but as a modern reader, it’s difficult for me to sympathize when he gets into trouble due to his own stupidity. He’s very much the archetypical swashbuckler, only unlike so many others of that type, has next to no understanding of the culture he’s invading other than a “Modern” view that they ought not to teach Muslim women if they’re going to shut them away from the world. Overall the plot is interesting, I just think Ryder’s an eejit who deserves all the consequences of his actions. Aimee is lovely and actually aware of all the cultural complications of his idiocy. After his absolute cockup of a “rescue” I really don’t think he deserves her. He’s just a bit too naive to call himself a savior.

I can tell that the author did actually travel to Egypt and has a Western understanding of the culture that is so prevalent throughout the narrative. It’s interesting from a historical perspective to learn about the dynamics of Turks, French, Brits, and Americans all mixing within the Egyptian capital. Especially because there is also the juxtaposition of Islam and Christianity. I can’t exactly define which aspect the prejudice is coming from, but it’s definitely there. And yet the story is an exotic romance of adventure, damsels in distress, hidden identities, and fortunes, that of course there is the evil jealous old rich man who seeks to steal away the young beautiful girl who must rely on a young white (literally) knight to save her!