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Affair in Araby   By: (1879-1940)

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Affair in Araby by Talbot Mundy takes readers on a thrilling adventure through the exotic lands of the Middle East. Set against the backdrop of British colonial rule in the early 20th century, the book transports readers to the bustling city of Cairo and the vast deserts of Arabia.

The story follows James Schuyler Grim, an American adventurer with a mysterious past, as he finds himself caught in a complex web of political intrigue and personal vendettas. Drawn into a world of spies, revolutionaries, and secret societies, Grim becomes entangled in a dangerous affair that threatens to unravel the delicate balance of power in the region.

Mundy's writing style is immersive and vivid, painting a striking picture of the sights, sounds, and smells of the Arabian landscape. His meticulous attention to detail brings the story to life, allowing readers to feel as if they are right beside Grim as he navigates the treacherous waters of espionage.

What sets Affair in Araby apart from other adventure novels is its deep exploration of cultural and political dynamics. Mundy expertly dives into the complexities of colonialism, shedding light on the clash between Western powers and the indigenous people of the Middle East. Through the eyes of Grim, we witness the struggle for independence and the tensions between different factions, all while being treated to a riveting plot.

The characters in the book are well-developed and multi-dimensional. Grim, in particular, is a compelling protagonist, with a mysterious past that slowly unravels throughout the story. His intelligence and resourcefulness make him a formidable hero, while his internal conflicts and moral dilemmas add depth to his character.

One minor criticism is that at times the pacing feels uneven, with certain sections dragging on while others move at a breakneck speed. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book.

Affair in Araby is a captivating adventure novel that combines action-packed scenes with thought-provoking themes. Mundy's masterful storytelling, richly-drawn characters, and fascinating insights into the historical and cultural context make this a must-read for fans of the genre. Whether you're a lover of exotic settings, espionage, or political intrigue, this novel will keep you hooked until the very last page.

First Page:

AFFAIR IN ARABY

by Talbot Mundy

CHAPTER I

"I'll make one to give this Feisul boy a hoist"

Whoever invented chess understood the world's works as some men know clocks and watches. He recognized a fact and based a game on it, with the result that his game endures. And what he clearly recognized was this: That no king matters much as long as your side is playing a winning game. You can leave your king in his corner then to amuse himself in dignified unimportance. But the minute you begin to lose, your king becomes a source of anxiety.

In what is called real life (which is only a great game, although a mighty good one) it makes no difference what you call your king. Call him Pope if you want to, or President, or Chairman. He grows in importance in proportion as the other side develops the attack. You've got to keep your symbol of authority protected or you lose.

Nevertheless, your game is not lost as long as your king can move. That's why the men who want to hurry up and start a new political era imprison kings and cut their heads off. With no head on his shoulders your king can only move in the direction of the cemetery, which is over the line and doesn't count.

I love a good fight, and have been told I ought to be ashamed of it. I've noticed, though, that the folk who propose to elevate my morals fight just as hard, and less cleanly, with their tongue than some of us do with our fists and sinews... Continue reading book >>




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