With its exceptional clarity, balanced judgment of both Muslim and non-Muslim sources, and a broad perspective that encompasses peripheral peoples, Robert Hoyland's new book provides an account of the rise of Islam that is as definitive as it is accessible. -G. W. Bowersock, author of The Throne of Adulis This is perhaps the best introduction to the Arab-Islamic Conquests ... Read moreavailable...Original, authoritative, and a joy to read-I cannot recommend it highly enough. -Adam Silverstein, author of Islamic History: A Very Short Introduction [A] fascinating revisionist account.
Robin Gill, Theology
This is a succinct, intelligent guide to the period, alert to nuance and cautious about grand theories. -Stuart Kelly, The Scotsman Concise and clear, In God's Path is a recommended introduction to historical events about which everyone today wants to know. -Peter Webb, Times Literary Supplement In God's Path provides a thorough, persuasive and timely overview of this century of transformations in the history of the Middle East for specialists and non-specialists alike. -Harry Munt, History Today An illuminating, richly detailed, highly readable study of one of the crucial periods of history. -Peter Leithart, First Things In God's Path is a thoughtful and nuanced guide to an age that was far more complex than we might imagine from older accounts.... A crucial story, which Hoyland tells powerfully. -Philip Jenkins, Books & Culture [A] splendid new history of the Arab conquests.... Hoyland...has performed an invaluable service. His book will surely serve as the definitive account of the Arab conquests for many years to come. -Tom Holland, Literary Review Show Less