Shoghi Effendi, barely twenty-four and lacking funds, expertise or assistants, embarks on the audacious mission to crown the Shrine of the Báb with its iconic dome. Against a backdrop of political upheaval and scarce resources, his unwavering resolve galvanises a nascent global community. What begins in 1922 as a near-impossible dream steadily takes shape through decades of steadfast labour, faith and strategic planning.

A remarkable cast of collaborators emerges: his devoted wife; an eminent Canadian architect; an Italian nobleman; a selfless benefactor; a skilled Haifa engineer; an American “Hercules” project manager; and an Arab patron renowned as “The Man with the Golden Touch.” Alongside them appears a thwarted European royal pilgrim and a pioneering female photographer, each playing an unexpected role in this epic enterprise.

In 1953, the golden dome of the “Queen of Carmel” stands complete, set within its mystical gardens—an enduring testament to visionary leadership and collective sacrifice. This thrilling sequel to Journey to a Mountain paves the way for the forthcoming third volume, chronicling Mount Carmel’s transformation into a living masterpiece.

This thrilling saga conveys the drama, excitement and challenges associated with the completion of the Shrine of the Báb — Dr Janet Khan