Muhammad Harb's insightful book delves into the complex life and reign of Sultan Abdul Hamid II, often considered the last true great Ottoman Sultan. This comprehensive work explores his efforts to maintain the declining Ottoman Empire amidst internal unrest and external pressures from European powers. Harb meticulously details Abdul Hamid's political strategies, his emphasis on Islamic unity, and his significant contributions to modernization, despite facing immense challenges. The book provides a nuanced perspective on his controversial policies and his ultimate dethronement, offering readers a deep understanding of a pivotal figure in Ottoman history and the dramatic twilight years of a vast empire. It's an essential read for anyone interested in late Ottoman history and the legacy of its formidable rulers.