The Cordoba Mysteries (Books 1–4)

Four captivating historical mysteries. Over 1000 pages of intrigue. In the glittering court of 10th-century Al-Andalus, justice falls to two unlikely allies. It's the golden age of Cordoba and justice comes at a price. Vizier Hasdai ben Shaprut is a physician, diplomat, and scholar—a man whose sharp mind and subtle words can defuse wars as easily as they can unmask a murderer. Trusted advisor to the Caliph, he balances his Jewish faith with his duty in a Muslim court, navigating intrigue with intellect, patience, and an unshakable moral compass. At his side stands General Ghalib , commander of the Caliph’s personal guard. Scarred by years of battle and walking with a limp, Ghalib is blunt, formidable, and utterly loyal. Where Hasdai reads patterns in politics and people, Ghalib sees the truth in blood, steel, and the hardened instincts of a soldier. Together, they are the Caliphate’s first and last defence against treachery—partners bound by duty, respect, and the shared knowledge that in Cordoba, every shadow hides a secret. Book 1: Checkmate Córdoba, 948 AD. When a Christian professor is found murdered after a tense chess match, whispers of war spread through the city. To prevent disaster, the Caliph’s vizier, Hasdai ben Shaprut, must unmask the killer. But as the bodies mount and every move brings new danger, can he checkmate the murderer before Córdoba falls into chaos? Book 2: Blood Horizon Córdoba, 950 AD. On the eve of war with Baghdad, disaster strikes — the Admiral of the Royal Fleet is murdered, and his lieutenant soon after. As the investigation unfolds, a darker threat emerges: Baghdad is preparing a weapon of unimaginable horror — a deadly plague, sealed in earthenware pots, destined to devastate Córdoba. It's up to Shaprut and Ghalib to put a stop to this dangerous threat. Book 3: The Devil’s Chain Córdoba, 961 AD. When a professor is found poisoned, General Ghalib and Brigadier Zaffar uncover a conspiracy reaching deep into the caliphate. With a new ruler on the throne and treachery spreading, Vizier Hasdai ben Shaprut must risk everything to protect his position — and his friends — before Córdoba descends into chaos. Book 4: Allah’s Architect Caliph Hakam seeks to secure his son Hisham’s future as heir with the grand opening of a new extension to the Great Mosque. But when a revered Quran — chosen by Hakam himself — vanishes, the vizier Hasdai ben Shaprut and General Ghalib are drawn into a deadly struggle. What begins as a celebration soon descends into bloodshed as rival factions fight to control the caliphate. Perfect for fans of C.J. Sansom, S.J. Parris, Jason Goodwin, Umberto Eco and Paul Doherty. PRAISE FOR MARK DEWAR: ????? ‘ Part historical record, part murder mystery and part thriller. A must read .' Kindle Reader. ????? ‘This is an atmospheric tale of dirty deeds in tenth-century Moorish Andalusia - a great read, and a well-crafted plot .' Dennis C. ????? ‘What a brilliant read ! Historically accurate as well as a well crafted plot with 'authentic' characters .' Poppalong ????? ‘ A recommended must read .' Moseley ????? ‘ Atmospheric and well written, this series gets even better with each new title, and this is a real page-turner .' D.E. Wilson