The Desert Drum 1905   By: Robert Smythe Hichens (1864-1950)

In Robert Smythe Hichens' novel, The Desert Drum 1905, the reader is transported to an enchanting world of mystery and adventure amidst the backdrop of the scorching Sahara. Set in the early 20th century, Hichens masterfully weaves a captivating tale that seamlessly blends elements of romance, danger, and exploration.

The narrative centers around a young British archaeologist named Miles Burton, who finds himself entangled in a web of intrigue when a peculiar artifact, an antique drum, is discovered during one of his expeditions. As the story unfolds, Burton becomes increasingly enthralled by the drum's mystique, as it is rumored to possess the power to unlock hidden treasures and unleash a dormant curse upon those who dare disturb its slumber.

Hichens' vivid descriptions transport the reader to the unforgiving desert landscape, evoking a palpable sense of heat, dust, and isolation. Through his skilled storytelling, one can almost feel the scorching sun beating down on their skin, taste the dryness in the air, and sense the vastness of the desert stretching endlessly before them. It is within this harsh environment that the characters are tested, their weaknesses exposed, and their desires challenged.

Furthermore, Hichens excels in crafting complex and multi-dimensional characters that resonate with the reader. Miles Burton, our protagonist, undergoes a profound transformation throughout the course of the novel. Initially driven by his ambition and thirst for knowledge, he evolves into a more introspective and self-aware individual, ultimately questioning the true nature of his obsession with the desert drum.

Another standout aspect of this novel lies in the author's ability to seamlessly blend different genres. While the heart of the story revolves around a quest for ancient treasures, it is complemented by elements of romance, as Burton finds himself caught in a love triangle of sorts. The emotional depth and turmoil that Hichens infuses into these relationships elevate the narrative to new heights, allowing the reader to become emotionally invested in the characters' wellbeing.

However, there are moments when the pacing of the story lags, notably in the middle of the book. At times, the author's meticulous attention to detail can slow down the plot's momentum, causing some readers to lose interest. As a result, the narrative occasionally feels burdened by unnecessary exposition that could have been trimmed to keep the reader engaged.

In conclusion, The Desert Drum 1905 is a captivating and immersive tale that transports readers to a world of arid beauty and dangerous allure. Robert Smythe Hichens skillfully entwines elements of adventure, romance, and mystery, creating an enchanting story that will leave readers yearning for more. Despite occasional pacing issues, this novel stands as a testament to Hichens' storytelling prowess and his ability to captivate readers with his evocative prose.

First Page:

Of all the desert superstitions the one which appealed most to my imagination was the superstition of the desert drum. The Sahara man declares that far away from the abodes of men and desert cities, among the everlasting sand dunes, the sharp beating, or dull, distant rolling of a drum sometimes breaks upon the ears of travellers voyaging through the desolation. They look around, they stare across the flats, they see nothing. But the mysterious music continues. Then, if they be Sahara bred, they commend themselves to Allah, for they know that some terrible disaster is at hand, that one of them at least is doomed to die... Continue reading book >>