In 1998, author Gill Suttle travelled across Syria on horseback and this book tells of her remarkable adventure as she experienced firsthand what it was like to live among the most generous and charming of the Arab peoples.
From the Desert to the Deep Blue Sea is a well-written and inspiring book. Woven through the journey is information on the history and religion of the area, as well as some wonderful moments of pure humour which make you laugh out loud as you read on. From the Desert to the Deep Blue Sea is an acknowledgment of the fun that can be had when you set out on horseback and of how a place such as Syria, steeped in history, can be the most welcoming and hospitable place on the planet.

"This book is the finest book ever penned about equestrian travel in Syria. It's full of adventure, as well as being poetic in its search for a deeper meaning to the journey... A passion for Arab horses and a long acquaintance with Syria inspired the author to travel on horseback into the backwoods of this fascinating land in 1998. Here is an account greatly differeing from those of some recent equestrian travel books, whcih describe heavily organised expeditions complete with logistics team, back-up lorry, spare horses and all the latest equipment. In contrast, this traveller enjoyed a relaxed, spontaneous ramble, living out of homemade saddlebags, enjoying the hospitality of local people and often sleeping rough. Best of all, her companion was that of her wildest childhood fantasies: an Arab stallion.
"Together, horse and rider traversed the gorges and cornfields of the Orontes Valley, where Roman water wheels still work alongside modern irrigation; lost themselves among the ridges and passes of the Alawi Mountain, whose various minority sects live happily together and whose ruined castles recall the times of the Crusades; briefly touched the Mediterranean shore, before crossing the western reaches of the Badiat ash-Sham, or Syrian Desert, on the way down to the Damascus Oasis. They trod where an Egyptian Pharoah gave battle, supped with descendants of Biblical Assyrians and mediaeval Assassins, and visited the Jebel-ad-Din, or Mountain of Faith, where villagers still speak Aramic, the language of Christ.
"While briefly informed by history, Islam amd its offshoots, geography and - where absolutely unavoidable - politcs, this delightful book is principally an acocunt of the people of Syria - and of a gallant and memorable horse."

Illustrated with maps and photographs, this paperback book is 202pp.