Subject

British -- Africa, North -- Fiction Books

Best books

Rafael Sabatini

The sea-hawk

"The Sea-Hawk" by Rafael Sabatini is a novel published in 1915. Set between 1588-1593, it follows Sir Oliver Tressilian, a Cornish gentleman betrayed by his jealous half-brother and sold into slavery. After enduring months chained to a galley oar, Oliver is freed by Barbary pirates and becomes the feared corsair Sakr-el-Bahr. Now commanding the seas, he plots revenge against those who destroyed his life, leading to a dramatic confrontation that will determine his fate.

Robert Hichens

The Garden of Allah

"The Garden of Allah" by Robert Hichens is a novel published in 1904. Domini Enfilden, a devout English Catholic seeking peace in French Algeria, meets the mysterious and troubled Boris Androvsky in the desert oasis town of Beni-Mora. As their relationship deepens against the stark beauty of the Sahara, Boris struggles with a dark secret from his past that threatens their future together. Their journey south into the desert becomes a quest for redemption and truth.

Rafael Sabatini

Merihaukka

"Merihaukka" by Rafael Sabatini is a novel published in 1915. Set during 1588-1593, it follows Sir Oliver Tressilian, a Cornish gentleman betrayed by his jealous half-brother and sold into slavery. After enduring months as a galley slave, Oliver is freed by Barbary pirates and joins their ranks, becoming the feared corsair Sakr-el-Bahr. Now commanding his own vessel, he returns to England seeking vengeance against those who wronged him, capturing his brother and former fiancée to settle old scores.

Robert Hichens

Villilampaita

"Villilampaita" by Robert Hichens is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Sir Claude Wyverne, a somewhat ordinary Englishman, and his adventurous wife, Lady Wyverne, as they embark on a journey to Algeria. The narrative explores themes of marital dynamics, intrigue, and the clash between reason and the allure of the mysterious, largely through Lady Wyverne’s growing fascination with her surroundings and the enigmatic figures they encounter. At the start of the story, Sir Claude and Lady Wyverne are introduced as a couple with contrasting personalities. While Sir Claude is more reserved and prefers the tranquility of their planned life in Leicestershire, Lady Wyverne is restless, eager for new experiences, and insists on traveling to Algeria. During their stop in Paris, they consult an astrologer, adding a mystical layer to their journey. After a brief stay in Algeria, they plan to venture into the desert, where the allure of adventure and the exotic begins to draw Lady Wyverne closer to the local culture and characters, particularly a young Arab Spahi whom she finds captivating.

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