The Assassins

The secret brotherhood that made kings tremble...

Hidden high in the mountains of medieval Persia stood a fortress unlike any other. From the castle of Alamut, a small religious order challenged mighty empires, outwitted powerful rulers and created one of history's most enduring legends.

Led by the brilliant Hasan-i Sabbah, the Assassins perfected the art of intelligence gathering, espionage and targeted political assassination. Their enemies included Seljuk sultans, Crusader princes, Saladin himself and, ultimately, the unstoppable Mongol Empire. Though few in number, they changed the course of medieval history through discipline, patience and fear rather than overwhelming military force.

But who were the Assassins really?

Were they fanatical killers drugged with hashish before carrying out their missions? Did the mysterious "Old Man of the Mountain" truly command followers who would die at a single word? Or have centuries of myths and legends hidden the truth behind one of history's most misunderstood organisations?

In this fast-paced and engaging history, you'll discover:

• The political and religious world that gave birth to the Assassins

• Hasan-i Sabbah and the remarkable capture of Alamut Castle

• How the Secret Brotherhood was organised and trained

• The truth behind their famous assassinations

• Their encounters with the Crusaders, the Knights Templar and Saladin

• Marco Polo's stories and the myths that still surround them today

• The Mongol destruction of Alamut and the end of the Assassin state

• Why their legacy continues to fascinate the modern world

Perfect for readers who enjoy medieval history, the Crusades, secret societies and legendary warriors, Half Hour History: The Assassins separates fact from fiction to reveal the extraordinary true story of the brotherhood behind one of history's greatest legends.

Discover the real Assassins-and the truth behind the name that still echoes around the world today.