The Saracen

The Saracen is a two-part historical novel set in the 13th century, following an English-born protagonist who becomes a Muslim warrior and spy. The story spans from the Islamic world to medieval Europe, centered on a complex political plot involving the Papal Court, Mongol forces, and the fate of the Holy Land. Daoud ibn Abdullah serves as a skilled operative for the Mamluks, trained in both combat and espionage by the secretive Hashishyya order. His mission takes him deep into Christian territory, where he must navigate political intrigue and conflicting loyalties while operating in a hostile environment. The narrative incorporates real historical figures including Thomas Aquinas, Baibars, and Charles of Anjou, placing them within a carefully constructed fictional framework. The extensive research behind the novel covers Islamic culture, medieval warfare, and the complex religious-political landscape of the period. The book explores themes of identity, faith, and cultural conflict, examining how personal conviction intersects with political power during a pivotal period in medieval history. The story raises questions about loyalty, religious truth, and the nature of belief itself.

Readers praise the detailed historical research and portrayal of both Christian and Islamic medieval cultures in this two-volume series. Many highlight the complex characters and extensive world-building. Positives: - Authentic depiction of 13th century life and customs - Equal treatment of different religious perspectives - Fast-paced action sequences - Character development of protagonist Omar Negatives: - Some find the pacing slow in certain sections - Multiple plotlines can be confusing to follow - Historical details occasionally overshadow the story - Second volume feels less focused than the first Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (103 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (24 reviews) Sample review: "A hidden gem of historical fiction. The attention to period details and balanced portrayal of different cultures sets it apart." - Goodreads user Review quote: "The relationships between characters feel authentic, but the plot meanders too much in the middle sections." - Amazon reviewer

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🔸 Robert Shea extensively researched Islamic mysticism while writing The Saracen, drawing inspiration from his studies of the actual Hashishyya sect, which operated from mountain fortresses in Syria and Persia. 🔸 The term "assassin" originated from "Hashashin," though historians debate whether the sect actually used hashish, or if this was propaganda spread by their enemies. 🔸 King Manfred of Sicily, who appears in the novel, was known as the "Sultan of Lucera" due to his tolerance of Muslims and his employment of Muslim soldiers in his army. 🔸 Before writing historical fiction, Shea co-authored the cult classic Illuminatus! Trilogy with Robert Anton Wilson, which influenced his interest in secret societies and conspiracy theories. 🔸 The book's setting in the 13th century coincides with the peak of the Mongol Empire's expansion westward, which dramatically altered the balance of power between Islamic and Christian civilizations.