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The Lions of Al-Rassan

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The Lions of Al-Rassan

By: Guy Gavriel Kay
Narrated by: Euan Morton
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The ruling Asharites of Al-Rassan have come from the desert sands, but over centuries, seduced by the sensuous pleasures of their new land, their stern piety has eroded. The Asharite empire has splintered into decadent city-states led by warring petty kings. King Almalik of Cartada is on the ascendancy, aided always by his friend and advisor, the notorious Ammar ibn Khairan - poet, diplomat, soldier - until a summer afternoon of savage brutality changes their relationship forever.

Meanwhile, in the north, the conquered Jaddites' most celebrated - and feared - military leader, Rodrigo Belmonte, driven into exile, leads his mercenary company south.

In the dangerous lands of Al-Rassan, these two men from different worlds meet and serve - for a time - the same master. Sharing their interwoven fate - and increasingly torn by her feelings - is Jehane, the accomplished court physician, whose own skills play an increasing role as Al-Rassan is swept to the brink of holy war, and beyond.

Hauntingly evocative of medieval Spain, The Lions of Al-Rassan is both a brilliant adventure and a deeply compelling story of love, divided loyalties, and what happens to men and women when hardening beliefs begin to remake - or destroy - a world.

©1995 Guy Gavriel Kay (P)2012 Audible, Inc. Classics Fantasy Fiction Genre Fiction Literary Fiction Royalty
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The further into this book I got, the more cheated I felt. If you want historical fiction but can't be bothered to do the research, this is the book for you. If you want a fantasy book, but can't be bothered with creating setting or characters, this is the book for you. The Lions of Al-Rassan teaches an important lesson to aspiring authors: take a well-known historical period, fudge the names a bit, and pass it off as your own creation - apparently it's totally legitimate

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Stunning writing from Kay and good narration I have read all of his work and am always impressed by the life he breathes into his characters.

Kay brilliant as ever

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While not my personal favourite Kay book, it sits comfortably above many modern fantasy novels.

A modern master of the genre with another solid standalone novel,

GGK's prose as always is lovely and the audiobook is narrated fairly well despite some inconsistencies.

Recommended

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Beautiful book, very well presented.

Kay has such a wonderful way with words. A tremendous storyteller.

This is one of those books I wish would never finish. ‘What is love?’

Heart achingly beautiful

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An epic story told through the lives of several principal characters. As always GGK writes beautifully with moving poetic prose. The themes on the butchery of war and the love and compassion found in those caught up by loyalties and their faith are universal and poignant. Wonderful book.

Brilliant

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