The Shield of Christendom

What makes a defense succeed? The siege of Rhodes.

1479-1481. Georges de Blanchefort, descendant of Cyprus-era Hospitallers, gives the cross to Grand Master d'Aubusson as the Knights defend Rhodes against Ottoman assault. What makes a defense succeed? Leadership, sacrifice, and unity—lessons that will echo through the centuries.

More from The Long Defense

The Armenian's Son
The Long Defense - Book 1

Can vengeance bring peace? A silversmith's journey from destruction to creation.

The Hospitaller's Vow
The Long Defense - Book 2

Is there righteous violence? A Hospitaller's defense of the innocent.

The Fall
The Long Defense - Book 3

What survives the end of everything? The fall of the last Crusader stronghold.

Beaucéant
The Long Defense - Book 4

What survives when institutions die? A Templar's final days.