In the Shadow of the Sword

In 'In the Shadow of the Sword', Tom Holland provides a sweeping narrative of the late antique world, detailing the decline of the Roman and Persian empires and the emergence of Islam.

The book critically examines the traditional sources of Islamic history, questioning the accuracy of early accounts and proposing alternative perspectives on the origins of Islam.

Holland's work is both a historical exploration and a provocative reevaluation of the period.