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Muslims -- Fiction Books

Best books

Rafael Sabatini

The sea-hawk

"The Sea-Hawk" by Rafael Sabatini is a novel published in 1915. Set between 1588-1593, it follows Sir Oliver Tressilian, a Cornish gentleman betrayed by his jealous half-brother and sold into slavery. After enduring months chained to a galley oar, Oliver is freed by Barbary pirates and becomes the feared corsair Sakr-el-Bahr. Now commanding the seas, he plots revenge against those who destroyed his life, leading to a dramatic confrontation that will determine his fate.

Annie F. (Annie Fellows) Johnston

In the Desert of Waiting: The Legend of Camel-back Mountain

"In the Desert of Waiting: The Legend of Camel-back Mountain" by Annie F. Johnston is a philosophical fable written in the early 20th century. This narrative explores themes of patience, ambition, and personal growth through the journey of a young merchant named Shapur who finds himself stranded in the desert with his injured camel. The story illustrates the transformative power of waiting, showcasing how worthwhile insights and personal strength can emerge from difficult circumstances. The tale follows Shapur, who longs to reach the City of his Desire but is hindered by misfortune when his camel becomes lame. Instead of despairing, he meets an alchemist named Omar, who teaches him the value of patience through the labor of harvesting rose petals to create a precious attar. Over time, Shapur learns that his time spent waiting is not wasted; rather, it offers him profound lessons and the opportunity to distill sweetness from his struggles. Eventually, he gains the ability to enter the city not as a mere vendor of salt, but as an “Apostle of Alchemy,” equipped with knowledge and compassion for others. He becomes a beacon of hope for those facing their own deserts of waiting, imparting the wisdom he gained during his time of trial.

Gustave Dubarry

Othello

"OTHELLO" by Gustave Dubarry and William Shakespeare is a dramatic play written in the late 16th century. The narrative centers on Othello, a Moorish general in Venice, and explores themes of love, jealousy, betrayal, and the tragic consequences of manipulation. The opening introduces key characters such as Othello, Desdemona, Rodrigo, and Iago, setting the stage for a tale filled with tension and intrigue. At the start of the play, the scene is set in Venice during a prosperous time for the Republic. Two gentlemen, Rodrigo and Iago, engage in a heated conversation revealing that Desdemona, Rodrigo's desired love, has eloped with Othello. Iago, who harbors hatred for Othello due to his promotion of Cassio over him, plots to turn Rodrigo's affections into a means of revenge against Othello. As the narrative unfolds, themes of manipulation and betrayal emerge through Iago's cunning schemes, setting the foundation for the tragic events that are to come.

Rafael Sabatini

Merihaukka

"Merihaukka" by Rafael Sabatini is a novel published in 1915. Set during 1588-1593, it follows Sir Oliver Tressilian, a Cornish gentleman betrayed by his jealous half-brother and sold into slavery. After enduring months as a galley slave, Oliver is freed by Barbary pirates and joins their ranks, becoming the feared corsair Sakr-el-Bahr. Now commanding his own vessel, he returns to England seeking vengeance against those who wronged him, capturing his brother and former fiancée to settle old scores.

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