The Lions of Al-Rassan

Originating from the desert sands, the ruling Asharites of Al-Rassan have seen their strict religiosity dissolve over ages as they were drawn to the sensual delights of their new territory. The Asharite kingdom has broken apart into decaying city-states ruled by petty rulers at war. The infamous Ammar ibn Khairan, a poet, diplomat, and soldier, helps King Almalik of Cartada remain on the rise until a summer day of barbaric savagery irrevocably alters their relationship.

Concurrently, in the north, Rodrigo Belmonte, the most renowned and dreaded military commander of the vanquished Jaddites, heads south with his mercenary band after being forced into exile.

These two men from separate planets meet in the perilous regions of Al-Rassan and serve the same master for a while. Jehane, the skilled court medic, shares their intertwined destiny and is becoming more and more torn by her emotions. Her abilities become more significant as Al-Rassan is driven to the verge of holy war and beyond.

The Lions of Al-Rassan, a hauntingly evocative tale of medieval Spain, is a thrilling adventure as well as a profoundly captivating tale of love, betrayal, and what happens to men and women when entrenched ideas start to reshape — or destroy — a world.