A SUNDAY TIMES TOP TEN BESTSELLER

«A stunning blockbuster» Robert Fisk

«A brilliant tour de force of revisionist scholarship and thrilling storytelling» Simon Sebag Montefiore

«A compelling detective story of the highest order» Sunday Times

«Tom Holland has an enviable gift for summoning up the color, the individuals and animation of the past» Independent

In the 6th century AD, the Near East was divided between two ancient empires: the Persian and the Roman. A century later, one had disappeared forever, while the other seemed almost finished. In their place were the Arabs: a shift so profound that it essentially marked the end of the ancient world.

"In the Shadow of the Sword" explores how this happened. Ranging from Constantinople to the Arabian desert, and featuring some of the most remarkable leaders who have ever lived, it tells a story full of drama, terror, and incredible achievements.

Pages: 592, Year of Publication: 0430, Dimensions: 12.8x12.8cm