has anyone playing it mangaed to get a viable economy?

i read that it was originally intended that there would be trade caravans to attack for money- but that doesnt seem to be in this

i have nearlly completed it, but i did cheat by ading money regularly. if anyone manages to have a sustainable economy with this game then please let me know.

saladin came and besieged acre earlly on and i massacred him and his massive army against the walls. following that i didnt realy encounter that much serious opposition, i.e no full stack armies.

i tried to convert every village/town i conqured as it felt apropriate, but i am sure it is unecessary and just makes things difficult for you. if the earliest chisitian building was 1 or 0 turns to build rather than 2 it would be alot easier.

overall i really enjoyed it, its been very stylishy done and the battles are fun, im a bit worried that i reduced the fun by cheating with the money- i would be intersted to no other peoples experiences