The Jerusalem Trilogy, Book III
Balian d’Ibelin and the Third Crusade
A lost kingdom,
a lionhearted king,
and the struggle to regain Jerusalem
Balian has survived the devastating defeat of the Frankish army at the Battle of Hattin, and walked away a free man after the surrender of Jerusalem, but he is baron of nothing in a kingdom that no longer exists. Haunted by the tens of thousands of Christians now in Saracen slavery, he is determined to regain what has been lost. The arrival of a vast crusading army under the soon-to-be-legendary Richard the Lionheart offers hope — but also conflict, as natives and crusaders clash and French and English quarrel.
Reviews Excerpts
“…this is one of the best historical series ever written. … A very detailed drama full of historical truths intertwined with a fantastically written tale, … The zest this author has for her subject is dramatic, intense and something that will never be forgotten!” — FEATHERED QUILL
“… a captivating work of historical fiction…that offers insight into the religious politics of the Middle Ages. … Even the most minor character is fully described and the attention to the smallest details is evident in every aspect of the novel. … Passionate prose brings the fascinating backdrop of the Middle Ages to life, and interest holds throughout.” — FOREWORD CLARION REVIEW
“‘Envoy’ stands alone as captivating and entertaining, as well as scholarly and far-reaching in scope and intent. As a complete work, the Jerusalem Trilogy represents an outstanding achievement; a literary oeuvre constructed in keeping with the highest academic principles for research and verifiable accuracy.” — REAL CRUSADES HISTORY
“Schrader, a career diplomat with a PhD in history, delivers a meticulous historical drama full of telling details and dialogue that’s contemporary-feeling without compromising its historical authenticity…. [T]he story presents both Christian and Muslim points-of-view, so there is no facile stereotyping of villains….[R]eaders are sure to find the author’s enthusiasm for Crusade-era history infectious.” — BLUE INK
“…I was extremely impressed by Schrader’s unparalleled skill in capturing a very complex period in history in a manner that is utterly accessible and even addictive. Little-known characters are brought to the reader’s attention, and well-known characters are presented in a new light … I found the book extremely difficult to put down, and was glad that it stretched to 500 pages….I simply cannot find fault with “Envoy of Jerusalem” and I warmly recommend it to any fans of historical fiction. It is an exemplary book of its kind.” — ONLINE BOOK CLUB
“[Schrader] has always been masterful in incorporating both the realistic geographical and historical setting of the time into her story … She has managed to invent and discover the underlying motives, causes and events that could logically explain the sequence of history. I bought the book 2 days ago and have already finished reading it thrice. I can say without any doubt, Bernard Cornwell has a peer totally his equal.” — An Amazon Reviewer
“This book is a combination of non-stop action interspersed with the very human element that is often overlooked in historical fiction. I especially appreciated the fact that the author included the stories of the slaves before and after redemption. I was basically familiar with the historical figures portrayed, but had never really considered the lives of the ‘regular folks’ like you and me. I also appreciated the heroic actions of men and women who sacrificed their own wealth and security for others. There was a time many years ago when I was at University when we were encouraged debunk heroes. I say enough! It is time we hold up heroic deeds and words. This world and it’s people need inspiration, and I personally found this series and this book in particular inspiring.” — An Amazon Reviewer
Awards and Accolades
