Then He Sent Prophets

by Mohamed Seif El Nasr

Morocco, 1359. The people of Fes are living in deprivation under the rule of an unjust sultan. Zakaria is a young Muslim scholar trying to sustain his family while committing to a rigid moral code. To provide for his sickly daughter, he sacrifices his principles and seeks a job at the palace, where he gradually becomes entangled in a web of intrigue, his conscience tormented by serving the sultan. In the hope of fleeing from the constraints of his world, he joins the quest of Muhammad ibn Yusuf, the exiled king of Granada, and his enchanting sister, Aisha, to reclaim their throne. Together, they set out to Andalusia on a journey that will call into question all of Zakaria’s beliefs and change the history of the Iberian Peninsula for decades to come.

Then He Sent Prophets is a story about the suffering of young idealists in a world of inevitable compromise. Throughout his journey, Zakaria faces internal struggles that are timeless and universal, strives to reconcile his faith with the world, doubts the motives behind his desire to live morally, and ends up wondering whether a life consisting of one compromise after another is one worth living.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

248 pages, Paperback

First published October 15, 2024

About the author

Mohamed Seif El Nasr grew up in Cairo, Egypt, attended the Collège de la Sainte Famille du Caire, received his bachelor’s degree in history and political science from the American University in Cairo, and worked for over a decade in corporate banking before changing paths and pursuing a career in writing. His published work includes several historical and political pieces in Mada Masr, Mondoweiss, Truthout, and elsewhere.

Then He Sent Prophets is his first novel.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moseifelnasr/

Praise for Then He Sent Prophets:
"Then He Sent Prophets is a novel for our moment. Set around the political struggles of fourteenth-century Granada, it is a deeply sympathetic and passionately human look at how one might make—or fail to make—moral, decent choices when living in a violent, indecent world." — Marcia Lynx Qualey, founding editor of ArabLit
Link to an interview in ArabLit: https://arablit.org/2024/10/15/in-con...

"In Zakaria, Seif El Nasr successfully crafts a complex protagonist who is both admirable and relatable . . . Politics is no playground for the morally conscious, and yet Zakaria, carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders, is determined to make it work . . . The plot climaxes towards the end of the novel in a battle scene, and the ending is tremendously powerful." — Hafsa Lodi, The New Arab
Link: https://www.newarab.com/features/seek...

"Those seeking a book that speaks to present concerns will certainly find this novel to be just that, but it is also rooted in the past . . . What made this novel fascinating to read was the blend of the two . . . Then He Sent Prophets is a fun, enjoyable, relatable and intriguing read and an excellent work of historical fiction." — Usman Butt, Middle East Monitor
Link: https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/202...

"This novel is so much more than its richly drawn characters, evocative settings, and probing questions about morality and compromise. Then He Sent Prophets is a triumph of storytelling . . . No number of reviews could fully encapsulate its richness . . . The narrative masterfully explores how we aim to live by our philosophies and beliefs, while the realities of lived experience, political upheavals, and financial pressures inevitably shape our paths . . . Timeless and timely. It is not just Zakaria's story—it is a reflection of the human condition and the quest for meaning in an ever-changing world." — Sherine Elbanhawy, founding editor of Rowayat Literary Journal
Link: https://rowayat.org/between-faith-and...

“This is an interesting character—and emotion—driven novel of a time, place, and events not widely covered in Western literature, [with] surprisingly a number of genuinely humorous scenes. This book happily exceeded my expectations. Prepare to take part in the gamut of emotions from joy to excitement, tragedy, and love. Recommended.” — Historical Novels Review, August 2025
Link: https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...

Reviews

[Khalid Abdul-Mumin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very well written historical fiction set in the fourteenth century about a group of characters that fate intertwines together.

The setting is suitably magical and it could have done with a bit of more world-building. The prose on the other hand shine's brightly, alternating between practicality and philosophical musings.

The plot is bold and doesn't shy away from the difficult questions of Islamic theology and I thoroughly loved the protagonists' viewpoint.

Highly recommended.

[Angelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would like to start by thanking the author, Mohamed Seif El Nasr, and the publisher, Daraja Press, for allowing me an Advanced Reader Copy of this work in exchange for an unbiased review.

This is the first novel by this author and I was really impressed by his debut! There is a lot going on with this work – historical fiction, action and adventure, a sort of tragic hero’s journey, and a lot of philosophical discourse about what it means to be a good person, a good Muslim, and a good ruler. It’s fairly heavy at times, but don’t let that scare you. Within the heavy moments we also find so much insight into what life was like for folks living in Morocco and Spain (al-Andalus) in the 14th century and can also see that some things really don’t change much across the centuries (love, family, friendship, war, and man’s search for meaning).

One thing I really enjoyed about the book was learning about this place and time in history. I have known about the Muslim rule in Spain prior to the Reconquista, but more in a sense that I knew it existed. I didn’t really know any details and basically just knew it happened and that the Muslim rulers were responsible for a lot of gorgeous architecture. Here, we learn much more about the actual kingdoms, their relationship with Moroccan rulers, and the alliances and battles between Muslim and Christian Spain. It was so interesting and I think this alone is reason enough for readers who are interested in early Renaissance Europe/Middle East/North Africa to pick up this book. I found myself constantly looking up characters, places, and architecture to get a feel for this setting and it was great! It's very apparent that the author has done extensive research and that really comes through in his writing.

Within this setting, we follow Zakaria, a young scholar who is navigating his own place within the courtly society in Fez, trying to raise a young family, and developing his (sometimes dangerous) views about what it means to be good Muslim in this world. As Zakaria travels this path, we also meet friends, family, and enemies who help, hinder, and harm Zakaria. Zakaria ultimately ends up being chosen to accompany Muhammad ibn Yusuf, the exiled king of Granada, as he journeys to retake his kingdom. Along the way, he finds hope, adventure, heartache, friendship, war, disappointment, and possibilities for redemption.

Zakaria is an interesting character and I am going to say that my feelings about him were all over the place as I was reading this book and I am still not entirely sure how I feel about him. I think this is intentional from the author and it makes for reading that really requires you to think more deeply about the characters. He was at times endearing and at other times, completely frustrating. He is well-intentioned, but also prideful and holds himself above pretty much everyone around him in terms of his philosophy, morality, and intelligence. He has very high standards and principles he wants to live by, but these very principles – or perhaps his pride – stop him from being the best man that he could be to his family, his friends, and himself. This is what makes the book a tragic hero’s journey. Zakaria finds himself constantly facing the choice between doing what he thinks is the principled thing or doing what needs to be done to provide for his family or to meet his own needs. Overall, I think I don’t like Zakaria, but I did appreciate being challenged to think about life through his story.

In addition to Zakaria, I have to mention his friend, Musa. Musa presents a different outlook on life. If Zakaria could be categorized as living something of the “life of the mind,” Musa could be described as somewhat opposite. He is intelligent, but he does not seem to be hampered by analyzing the morality of his choices right and left, the way Zakaria appears to be. Musa follows his instincts in his actions, and Musa’s choices often appear to make more sense than Zakaria’s. He supports his friends, takes care of his family, and fights for what he believes is right. He is the real hero of the story for me and I really appreciated having him as a somewhat parallel character.

I don’t want to give too many spoilers, so I’ll leave the plot at that. I did really enjoy the book I finished it a couple of weeks ago and was planning to write my review right away, but I found that I really needed to sit and think about it. As I’m writing the review now, I’m realizing that so much of it was memorable and thought provoking. I’ve read two or three books since I finished this, and yet I’m still thinking about Musa and still annoyed with/feels sad about Zakaria, so I think that’s a good sign that this is a book that will stick with you.

The writing is also very good. In earlier sections of the book, we see Zakaria arguing with his peers and mentors about different aspects of Islam and how to live one’s life as a Muslim and the writing was so natural that it put me in mind of real conversations I’ve witnessed and participated in with Muslim and Christian friends who are devout believers, but have different interpretations of how to practice their faith. There are also wonderful depictions of the women in Zakaria’s family – Salma (his wife), Hind (mother-in-law), and Tamima (grandmother). I could visualize all of them and imagine myself and other women I know saying the same things to Zakaria that they were saying (especially his mother-in-law). I thought this was really valuable in showing that even in a time when women had fewer rights (across the globe), they still had agency and power and, if nothing else, the ability to show their anger and frustration when life isn’t going the way we want it. It’s also refreshing to have a historical fiction that isn’t “women’s” fiction that includes women and allows them their own stories without turning them into just a romantic/sexual figure.

Some things I would have appreciated in the novel:
• A historical note at the end identifying which characters were real. I know that some of them were because I looked them up, but I always appreciate a historical note that helps me in the direction of further research if I want to learn more.
• I think Aisha could have been further developed as a character.
• There were a few points where I felt like I lost the plot. I am still not sure where the princes come in and was a bit confused when they were referenced throughout. (That might be my fault.)

None of those things took away from my enjoyment, however, and I happily recommend this book to other readers. I also want to note that you don’t need to have any special knowledge about the history or religions discussed in the book to find it engaging and entertaining. I know sometimes readers feel like they need to know more about a subject or they’ll be lost, but that’s not at all the case here. The author clearly knows his subject and that will come through to the reader.

I will definitely read future works by the author and hope he’ll get started on the next one soon.

One final note -I firmly believe that authors from any background can tell stories about a variety of subjects, but it is refreshing to have a new MENA author writing MENA literature in English and I hope other readers will be as excited as I was to discover this new book.

[Najia · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The opposite of poverty isn’t riches; it’s dignity and enablement. ”


This is the story of a mind which didn’t belong in the times it was born in. The story of a struggle between a scholarly mind which thinks a lot, observes a lot; all the time trying to refute the realities of the world where it’s difficult to survive without material gains; and eventually succumbing to it. This is the story of a man, who puts his ethics aside for his family, and comes too close to lose everything he ever believed in, in return. It’s the story of Zakariya, a man who questions, and rightly so, the turn, and not towards any good path, his religion had taken over the centuries, since its inception.

“There is no doubt in my mind that a religion should be judged by the conduct and moral character of its adherents, not by their beliefs and rituals. ”

Seif constantly questions the most established dogmas of islam as followed by its followers in today’s world, and how these norms are conflicting with the original teaching of its Prophet. The treatment of the religion by its flag bearers as a means to manipulate and dumb down the masses, the moral high horse we who in a place of privilege love to ride on, while looking down at the poor, barely struggling with their day to day life, is thoroughly explored.

“From your ivory tower, you condemn others as immoral. Well, let me tell you this: If there’s anyone to blame, it’s people like you. It’s the people who grew up without being burdened by need and having to stomp on their dignity day after day just to keep on living.”

Zakariya’s steep rise in the worldly blessings could be compared with the sharp decline in his ethical values. The constant struggle with his morality is conflicted with the life of comfort and power.

The book has a solid plot and strong story built up. The only major characterisation we see is of the protagonist himself. He is the center of this book’s universe whereas rest of the people are just there because they are associated with him in one way or other. And whose growth and decline is expertly analysed. Seif has a keen eye for human psyche, and the universal maxim of how the power can corrupt any human being no matter how good in nature. The constant tussle between good and evil inside Zakariya is one of the highlights of the book.

For the first book, this is an exceptional effort. Hope to read more books by the author in the future.

[Jennifer Abdo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Then He Sent Prophets is a historical fiction set in the 1300 or 1400s around Fes and Granada. I learned a bit more about the history of the region from the book and things I looked up as a result of reading. That will continue.

Sometimes, things happening so long ago can seem written such that you feel every year of the distance - not so with this book! These characters are vivid and very much alive - maybe you know people like them. The themes are universal - war and peace, faith vs religion, family and loyalty. Even if you aren't familiar with the history, you can very much enjoy the quest and characters and the plot as it winds its way around the cities.

The ending snuck up on me in a fabulous way, but of course I won't be saying any more about that!

*I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Ramzi Khoury · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. The book is simultaneously thought provoking and entertaining. The author grapples with complex timeless themes such as morality under oppressive rule, conformity vs progressive thinking, loyalty under extraordinary circumstances, determinism vs free will, all while carrying a tone that is calm, humble, and often humorous. I highly recommend it.

Note: The ending is grandiose and worthy of a motion picture!

[Babur Khan (The Pukhtoon Bibliophile) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm going to start by saying one word, WOW!

Muhammad Seif El Nasr’s "Then He Sent Prophets" is far more than a simple historical novel. It is a philosophical inquiry into the nature of power, faith, and human ambition, all set against the backdrop of one of the world's most fascinating and turbulent eras.

El Nasr transports us directly into the heart of the Middle Ages, offering beautiful descriptions of North Africa and Al-Andalus. The imagery is rich and vibrant, painting vivid pictures of the sun-baked deserts, the shadowed casbahs, and the flourishing, complex civilization of Islamic Spain. Amidst this grandeur, the complicated political scene of the era, rife with shifting alliances, courtly intrigue, and the ever-present tension between rival rulers, is explored with meticulous detail.

What truly elevates the book is the philosophical depth woven into the narrative. El Nasr uses the clash of empires and the decay of political structures to explore timeless questions about moral integrity, the temptation of earthly power, and the spiritual cost of worldly ambition.

The main character Zakaria's life is explored as a dramatic arc of rise, fall, and eventual rise again, helping us witness the painstaking process of his spiritual and intellectual redemption. Along the way, we also meet many other, very well written characters like Zakaria's resilient wife Salma, his strongheaded and loyal friend Musa, the overly ambitious Hajib, the philosopher king Ibn Yusuf, and the gorgeous princess Aisha. I particularly enjoyed the intellectual and philosophical discussions that Zakaria had with some of these characters throughout the book.

"Then He Sent Prophets" is a book to be savored slowly, not just for its gripping plot and its gorgeous descriptions, but for the profound questions it raises about what it means be human. I am beyond thankful to the author for sending me a complimentary copy of this unique book because it has become an absolute favorite of mine.

[Amira Berzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A deeply compassionate and heartfelt work.
And Then He Sent Prophets offers a vivid and intimate portrayal of the inner voices—the thoughts, doubts, and yearnings—of people striving, like so many of us, to discern the right path in a world that is eternally morally complex. The book brilliantly explores why people act immorally, how oppression breeds hypocrisy, and how the search for justice is often entangled with self-doubt, fear, and self-preservation.

What struck me most was the honest and visceral depiction of emotional reactions (of Zakaria and Musa)—particularly the repulsion toward sycophantic behavior—and the author’s gift for unpacking progressive, ethical thought one layer at a time. There’s a kind and generous portrayal running through it: that it is possible to be truly pious and also Just — pious yet rebellious and defiant. It’s a welcome departure from cynicism and from the lazy portrayal of people who are pious as only passive…merely lacking in intellectual curiosity or naïve.

The themes this book addresses are timeless—justice, divine justice, resistance to tyranny, and the struggle to remain morally upright in the face of immense pressure. It reflects deeply on where human resolve comes from, and how the interpretation of religious texts has been manipulated—particularly to uphold power structures, including those that reinforce male dominance. These reflections are not delivered subtly yet they emerge organically, as though there could be no other explanation but the one each character leads you to gently, unavoidably.

The book also speaks movingly to the instinct to survive—how survival can override values, intentions, even the desire to do good. There is a compassionate message woven throughout: that people’s behavior, even when morally compromised, often stems from a deep-rooted instinct to endure, to protect, to live and to be good. The author invites us to forgive that in others, and perhaps in ourselves.

It beautifully captures the inner battle between the need to be good and the need to not perish - to escape pain. Between lifting others from injustice or, heartbreakingly, stepping over them to secure your own safety. The tension between striving for a better life and merely surviving is drawn very well too. Intentions are shown not as black or white but as complex and often contradictory—noble and selfish at once. Virtue, here, is not simple. Human nature is both fragile and robust, and this book honors that tension rather than resolving it neatly.

The atmosphere the writer creates is unforgettable—immersive and evocative. It feels as though you’re walking the streets of Fez, or traveling in a caravan toward Gibraltar during the final moments of the golden age of Islam. This book doesn’t just tell a good story; it makes you feel you are in it—and you are one of them, or even several of them.

A remarkable, necessary read. Highly recommended.

[Aya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Then He Sent Prophets is a captivating work of historical fiction that follows Zakaria, a young Moroccan man from Fes, as he struggles between staying true to his values and compromising them for the hope of a better life. The amount of research and effort invested in this book is clear, and I found the storytelling highly engaging. I was transported to the narrow alleys of Fes’s old medina and the beautiful hills of Granada, with each chapter keeping me hooked from start to finish.

I have mixed feelings about Zakaria as a protagonist. He often comes across with a "better-than-thou" attitude, embodying the idealism of a young man with lots of talk, and so little action. For example, while he was right to challenge the authorities of his time and critique the failings of the leaders, his approach to religious matters felt somewhat forced and superficial, especially considering some of the questionable choices he later made. But I’ll leave it here to avoid giving away too much! :)

The ending was very satisfying. It marked me so much that I had to sit with my thoughts for a while to process what had just happened!

Overall, this was a remarkable debut by Mohamed Seif El Nasr, and I’m eagerly looking forward to his future work.

[Hashem Mahmoud · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has a grabbing premise that hooks you from the very first sentence and the strong epigraph. It is a deeply moving and an introspective novel that resonated with me on a personal level.
Zakaria’s journey, torn between his moral beliefs and the demands of life, feels incredibly relatable. The book beautifully portrays his internal conflict while exploring timeless themes of faith, duty, and what it means to live a meaningful life. It’s more than just a historical depiction of a long gone era; it’s a thought-provoking reflection on navigating an imperfect world. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a deep and an impactful read.

[Neveen · Rating 4 out of 5]

“He did not understand why those rituals were required when all that mattered was how to treat each other, and he tried to explain that rituals were not necessary. But after being pressed and thinking the matter over, he judged that rituals would do no harm. He was, after all, someone who had grown in seclusion, and what suited him might not suit others. He reasoned that the way he had tried to find God and reach the truth was a result of his isolation and that it was only a way. For those who live in communities, it made sense to create and strengthen the feeling of unity among them through the collective practice of rituals as a prelude to the ultimate unity. The ocean was not just above us; it was all around us. He prescribed rituals and even joined in them but insisted that they were only a way, not an end in themselves.”

This was a really unexpected read for me. I don’t usually go for historical fiction, but this novel drew me in from the beginning. It follows Zakaria, a scholar in the 14th century who faces tough choices between holding onto his values and finding a way to survive.
Even though the story is set centuries ago, the questions it raises about power and faith still feel very relevant today. The writing is smooth, and it’s hard to believe this is the author’s first book it is so beautifully written.
Zakaria’s journey stayed with me long after I finished reading, and it even made me curious to try more historical fiction in the future.

[Heba Amer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blending today's troubles in a historical setting, portraying many aspects of the human experience with its struggles, conflicting and sometimes opposing inner views/beliefs.. it is a multidimensional book in a way !
Despite the many characters, it made me believe that i know the personas as if they resemble people i have known or met.. a lot of analogies to the current times.
Eloquently intelligent conversations that is not lacking in philosophical & spiritual views and arguments along with vidid descriptive scenes. I could sense the evolution in the author's style within the book as it starts mostly abstract and then becomes more imaginative and live!  Beautifully written book that i have really enjoyed!

[Nina El Shabrawy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story of a flawed hero battling between his faith and his desires is set in 14th century Fes and brings readers in as they sympathize with, worry for and get angry with Zakaria. How can such lofty philosophical ideals of Islam live in the mind of one whose heart is so easily bruised by social judgments and women? And in the end, which Zakaria will prevail - the sinner or the saint?

[Leena · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.8/5

Fifteenth-century Morocco and Andalusia form a setting rich in intricate Islamic tradition and rife with political intrigue. Then He Sent Prophets capitalizes on both to craft a dramatic tale of greed, doubt, and idealism, filling a notable gap in modern historical fiction about this fascinating and culturally vibrant era. The story begins in Fez following the morally self-righteous yet insufferably self-unaware Zakaria, a poor and neglectful husband striving to become the next great Islamic philosopher. After a mishap at the Sultan’s court, he finds himself advising a deposed Andalusian king in his quest to reclaim the throne of Granada. What I loved most about this novel was its nuanced exploration of Islamic philosophy, woven into Zakaria’s dialogues and inner reflections like hidden gems. These moments were both informative and thought-provoking; they captured the intellectual soul of the time and prompted me to examine my own relationship with religion, particularly through questions of free will, destiny, and the dangers of blindly adhering to tradition. I only wish there were more of them.

That said, I felt the story took too long to truly get going. I often found myself growing impatient during the earlier pages of the novel, waiting for something compelling or significant to unfold. Additionally, while I can appreciate the appeal of a flawed protagonist, Zakaria’s ego was difficult for me to tolerate, particularly as the narrator. And at times, the writing felt a bit awkward.

“People always assume that Islam is a religion that was born in the desert, but they are mistaken. Islam is an urban religion and was born out of Mecca’s injustice. Before settling in Mecca, the nomadic Arabs who roamed the arid desert had great ethics. Their grim struggle for existence and the acceptance that each day could be their last affected their character. It forced them to develop a profound fatalism, become indifferent to material goods, and despise those who hoard wealth. They were generous, they helped the poor, and they took care of orphans and widows. But after settling in Mecca, all this changed in just two generations. Trade flourished, and the new settlers’ sense of security increased. They started to amass wealth, felt like they could live forever, lost their ethics, and the weak among them suffered. What I believe is that we are suffering today from the same maladies against which the Prophet had originally started preaching.”

“The scholars never tire of arguing that without the sunna and the Hadith, Islam would not be complete. One of their best arguments is the assertion that without them, we would not even be able to perform the salat, the daily ritual prayer, which is repeatedly mentioned but not described in the Quran. But have the scholars ever considered that this was perhaps on purpose? Have they ever entertained the idea that salat is too broad of a concept to be limited to our ritual? Have they ever though that our way of praying and reaching out to Allah is not the only way — but a way?”

[Jalilah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Then He Sent Prophetsis a great read for historical fiction aficionados! It is the type of book you get completely immersed in. I often found myself thinking about the characters and the storyline even when I was not reading it.
It is well researched historical fiction taking place in the late 13 hundreds in both Fez, Morocco and Granada Spain, then part of Al Andalus.
People who liked Leo Africanus by Amin Maalouf and the Granada: The Complete Trilogyby Radwa Ashour will enjoy it. Even though it takes place in the 14th century, it is relevant to today; the corruption of politicians, the struggle between doing what is right and making compromises. I was slightly disappointed by the ending, hence 4 1/2 stars, rather than 5 but otherwise it’s an excellent book that I could read again someday.
Mohamed Seif El Nasris a promising author and I look forward to reading other books by him!
An interesting tidbit for Westerners who don’t know much about Arab history: one of the characters in the book is Ibn Khaldun, an Arab Islamic scholar, historian and philosopher who is often credited as being the father of modern sociology. It seems the author the Dune series was heavily influenced by Ibn Khaldun. I have not read the books, but did see the movies and can see that being true.

[Sincerae Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Then He Sent Prophets is the first novel written by Mohamed Seif El Nasr. The author offered me a free ARC or Advanced Reader Copy of his historical novel, which I was delighted to read since historical novels are one of my favorite genres.

Then He Sent Prophets is set in 14th century Fez or Fes, Morocco and in al-Andalus at or near Granada, over a century before the Reconquista of Spain by the Catholic monarchs.

The main character is a young Moroccan named Zakaria, who is a scholar and later a palace scribe. Young Zakaria is an idealist. He has scholarly dreams of a society with more just rulers, and he also wants to see a world where devout Muslims have a purer understanding of the Quran, closer to what he feels their prophet intended. Zakaria finds himself always up against the world whether it is his mother-in-law Hind, best friend Musa, his confidante and mentor Ibn Khaldun, his nemesis Hajib, and others.

Zakaria finds out over time that in the world, it is often difficult to live up to high ideals. He struggles with this throughout the book.

Then He Sent Prophets is written in a style that is rather like oral or folk writing. The style is simple and beautiful with deep ideas embedded, ideas about politics, questions of power and morality, philosophical, and religious thought. The novel is a mixture of family and community saga, romance, and adventure story.

I didn't always know what to think of Zakaria and his life choices as the story progressed, but I was always on the edge of my seat, waiting to discover what would happen next. Then He Sent Prophets has many twists and turns. Zakaria is a complex and flawed protagonist, like most human beings.

I want to thank the author for sharing his first work with me.

[Joseph Nasr · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading 'Then He Sent Prophets' and honestly, I can't stop thinking about it. What a journey! The story transported me to 14th century Islamic Spain and North Africa in a way that felt incredibly real and personal.
The author, Mohamed Seif El Nasr, really knows his stuff when it comes to this period. But what impressed me most was how he made all these complex historical events and religious debates feel totally relevant to modern readers. Instead of getting bogged down in dry historical details, he focuses on the human stories and moral dilemmas that we can all relate to.
The characters really got under my skin, especially Zakaria, who's constantly struggling between his principles and the compromises required by power. His relationship with Musa was beautifully written - this deep friendship tested by impossible choices and diverging paths as they navigate a world of political upheaval.
I found myself completely hooked in the last quarter of the book. The way all the different storylines start coming together had me struggling to put the book down - I just had to know what would happen to these characters who had become so real to me. When I finally finished, I felt almost overwhelmed by the ending.
What really sets this book apart is how it explores timeless questions about conscience, compromise, and what it means to live an ethical life in a world that often seems unethical. Through Zakaria's journey, we confront questions that feel incredibly relevant today.
If you enjoy complex characters, rich historical detail, and stories that make you think deeply about moral questions, I highly recommend it. The author's deep knowledge of the period shines through on every page, but never at the expense of the human drama at the story's heart.

[Amy Refaat · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delight it was to delve into the history of the Western Islamic empire during the fourteenth century through the eyes of its citizens and some legendary figures of that era, such as Ibn Khaldun. It is so well researched; I know as it inspired me to read up on the period.

The moral questions presented in the novel are deeply relevant to the modern day. As we get to know Zakaria, the main character, and his world, we live through the moral struggles he faces, struggles similar to those one may face today when having to deal with corrupt leadership and institutions. The questions we are presented with, such as how to survive and provide for our families without becoming complicit in a system lacking in ethics, resonate with today’s world.

I highly recommend the novel for anyone looking for a riveting read that combines history, philosophy, exquisite storytelling and beautiful prose.

[Ahmed El Guindi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good story that can be seen and reflect differently according to reader's experience and background. Really enjoyed my time reading this book. Characters built very well, all vey consistent from start to finish. Pace never dropped. Really a good one.

[Caroline Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. It immediately teleported me into Zakaria’s world, which is at the same time alien and surprisingly familiar to me. The protagonist of the novel, Zakaria, is so endearing to the point I felt I was living his journey throughout the read.

[Nadine Shafik · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written, and thought-provoking book. The author offers fresh insights, making it a deeply reflective and engaging read. It's a powerful work that lingers long after you've finished.

[Omar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book serves as a profound gateway to the 14th century; a pivotal era that witnessed the beginning of the decline of the Islamic Empire. Meticulously researched & grandly depicted.

Ironically, seven centuries later, the patterns of history seem all too familiar. What often begins as a pursuit of peace, prosperity & spirituality, falls prey to ego, opportunism & misinterpretation.

At the heart of the narrative is a protagonist grappling with his moral compass amidst a world filled with hardships and contradictions. His devotion to family and morality—his most cherished values—is relentlessly tested, often at great personal cost.

A journey loaded with love, duty, humor, sacrifice, regret & resolution..
This book is a real treat!

[Dina Rifaat · Rating 5 out of 5]

A historical novel with countless parallels to our everyday dilemmas - for those who care and care to contemplate. What I especially loved about the read were the philosophical questions pondered and the depth of the thought process tackling those very questions - often through dialogue that made it feel like I was personally witnessing the back and forth (and tempted to partake). A serious piece of work that touches on the inner workings of the human psyche without losing a charming sense of humor. I'd recommend the book to anyone looking for a moving story and a chance to learn about a fascinating period in time.

[Karim Magd · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Then He Sent Prophets" is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of faith, morality, and human nature. I personally found the narrative mesmerizin and it left me questioning the very foundations of my beliefs, honestly.

The novel tackles difficult themes with sensitivity and nuance. The author raises important questions about the nature of faith, the role of prophets, and the consequences of blind obedience.

[Hany Abo El Wafa · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Then he sent prophets" is engaging, thought-provoking, and deeply universal. The parallels one draws to the modern world are striking and insightful. In every setting, we can recognize Hajibs, Musas, and Salmas—characters who feel timeless and familiar.

Zakaria’s journey is particularly compelling, drawing me into his mind as he navigates the complexities of life. His experiences shape a profoundly human narrative, one that is both deeply relatable and emotionally moving.


The book’s discourses on Islam, idealism, and the constant pressures of "reality" is nuanced, offering a rich exploration of faith, power, and personal dilemmas. I particularly appreciated its perspectives on rulers and people, highlighting the universality of their thoughts and struggles.

Whether set in 14th-century Fes or almost anywhere in the modern world, the themes remain just as relevant and impactful.

[Seif El Dine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written and spiritually profound book. Highly Recommended!