Merchants of Iniquity
by John D. Cressler
Much of modern Spain was under Muslim control for nearly 800 years (from 711 to 1492 C.E.). Medieval Islamic Spain was deeply influential in world events, for a multitude of reasons, including the rediscovery, translation, and dissemination of the lost works of medicine, science, and philosophy of the ancient Greeks, which helped set the stage for the European Renaissance. The Muslim Umayyads (with roots tracing back to Syria) were great lovers of books and learning. An exceptional period of peaceful coexistence during the 10th and 11th centuries between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam occurred under Muslim Umayyad rule, providing a powerful lesson in multiculturalism for our 21st century. Together, the three traditions helped launch a remarkable and enduring cultural revolution.
Merchants of Iniquity is the fourth and final release in the Anthems of al-Andalus Series, which breaks open this largely forgotten and fascinating history for modern readers. All four historical novels revolve around love stories set at pivotal moments in the history of medieval Islamic Spain. Merchants of Iniquity is a sequel to Fortune’s Lament and is set 120 years after Emeralds of the Alhambra. The heroine and hero of Fortune’s Lament, Danah and Yusef, are trapped in the middle of the bloody war between Granada and Christian Spain. The surrender of the Alhambra Palace in 1492 marks the end of the storied history of Islamic Spain, and precipitates the tragic Sephardic diaspora, as well as the fateful voyage of Columbus to claim the Americas.
Early Reader Reviews
“With Merchants, Cressler crafts a worthy end to the enthralling tales of the titular emeralds and the Convivencia. Beautifully written, masterfully woven, Merchants transports readers to a time so unlike our own. Let your soul and mind dive into the wrenching battles, mesmerizing Great Love, and characters’ depths. I devoured every page.” —Kyra Halbert-Elliott
“Cressler has done it again! Merchants of Iniquity presents an exciting and compelling ‘bill of goods,’ including adventure, stirring battlefield action, court and religious intrigue, passionate love, and historical perspective. A page-turner that will totally capture your attention. At the end you will know that you have been sold a true bargain in historical fiction!”
—Roger A. Meyer, MD
“War changes lives. No matter what age one lives in. For Danah and Yusef, newlyweds and young Muslims in the beautiful kingdom of Granada, nothing can prevent the devastating impact of war upon their young lives. But, as is true of any age, true love cannot be conquered; will not be defeated. Merchants of Iniquity offers more than a love story, more than just historical descriptions of war, more than you expect. The fascinating characters and beautiful writing pull you in. Cressler has capped his Anthems of al-Andalus Series with a fast-moving historical tale that rouses the emotions and stirs the passions.”
—Tom Jablonski
“Gripping!!! Lovers of historical fiction will relish Cressler’s latest book, Merchants of Iniquity, his best yet. The final book in this four-part series ties up the stories, the history, and the timbre of the times in a superb conclusion. I was hooked from the opening line. What an informative and delightful read. It leaves the reader thirsting for more. —Barbara Nalbone
“Cressler’s capstone to his Anthems of al-Andalus Series is a sensual yet horrifying immersion into the closing decade of 15th century Spain. We gaze over vast and abundant fields, their radiant colors matched by the intoxicating aromas of spring blossoms. We hear the mesmerizing call to Islamic prayer echo among busy streets and fortress towers. We savor lamb stew at a humble Passover Seder, indulge in rich confections in splendorous palaces of unequalled architecture. But, Cressler does not spare his characters the ache of starvation, the fatal loneliness of plague, or the stench and indignity of death on the battlefield. And, if all good things must end, no era ever ended with such pivotal repercussions for human history. Cressler’s retelling of events that led to the Sephardic diaspora and the western expansion of European influence is an achievement, and an edifying pleasure to read.” —Howard Holden
“Merchants of Iniquity is set in a fascinating period of Spanish history, one defined by war and strife and court intrigue. The characters of this beautiful love story will stay with you forever!”
—Trish Byers
“If you want a real understanding of the glory and the tragedy of 15th century Islamic Spain, Merchants is a must-read! Cressler creates characters, both real and imagined, so brilliantly that I felt I knew them well. What a prize this book is!”
—Bob Wilhelm
“Cressler’s epic conclusion to the Anthems of al-Andalus Series is filled with love, betrayal, and intrigue. Despite the tragic history that swirls about this engaging story, Cressler’s love of humanity shines constantly through. His characters are so vibrant and well-conceived. They spoke to me directly.” —Acar Nazli