Early 20th century Arabia's at war. Narash, a small sheikdom, fights to survive against a background of family betrayal, inter-tribal warfare and waning Ottoman influence.
It’s the early 20th century and war rages across Arabia. Faoud, ruler of Narash, a small coastal Sheikhdom, battles to maintain its independence.
Weak, exiled and desperately trying to maintain his shifting bedouin alliances, he has, simultaneously to keep enemy tribes at bay while dealing with deadly internal conflicts raging within his own family; not least with his own wife.
Faoud and his powerful mother, the Sheikha Faroum, realise that Narash’s greatest strength – their excellent harbour and trade routes, are also their greatest weakness, as many powerful enemies covet them.
They know they can’t survive alone, and must make alliances. But with whom? Certainly with other tribal leaders; but after that? Does he strengthen alliances with the Ottomans or seek support from the growing British presence?
Also central is Faoud’s relationship with a slave girl, who, after being captured by him in a murderous raid,has taken an oath to kill him. Meanwhile, she becomes a major player-behind the scenes, becoming increasingly wealthy as she trades in ivory, spices, slaves and guns.
Authors note: Though fiction, every attempt has been made for both historical and cultural accuracy. Should any errors have crept in despite this, I will happily correct them