The Eye of Zeitoon   By: Talbot Mundy (1879-1940)

The Eye of Zeitoon by Talbot Mundy is an exhilarating adventure novel that takes readers on a remarkable journey into the mysterious and dangerous world of the Middle East during the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of World War I, the story follows the protagonist, Roy Huntington, a young American engineer who finds himself embroiled in a web of intrigue and peril.

Mundy skillfully weaves together elements of romance, suspense, and action in this gripping tale. From the very first page, the author captivates readers with his vivid descriptions of the exotic landscapes and cultures encountered by the characters. Mundy's attention to detail is commendable, creating an immersive experience that transports readers to the heart of the Middle East.

The Eye of Zeitoon is characterized by its well-developed and multifaceted characters. Roy Huntington, with his unyielding spirit and relentless determination, serves as a relatable and engaging protagonist. As the plot unfolds, readers witness his transformation from a naive and innocent engineer to a courageous and shrewd adventurer. The supporting characters add depth to the narrative, each with their unique personalities and motivations.

One aspect that particularly stands out in this novel is Mundy's ability to intertwine historical events with a thrilling fictional plot. The author masterfully incorporates real-life events, such as the Armenian Genocide, seamlessly blending them with the fictional narrative. This adds an extra layer of authenticity and emotional resonance to the story, making it even more compelling and thought-provoking.

Furthermore, the pacing of The Eye of Zeitoon is skillfully managed. Mundy expertly builds suspense and tension throughout the book, ensuring that readers are constantly on the edge of their seats. The numerous twists and turns keep the plot unpredictable, enticing readers to eagerly turn the pages in anticipation of what will happen next.

However, it is worth noting that the book delves into complex historical and political themes. While this adds richness to the narrative, it may require readers to have some prior knowledge or willingness to engage with these topics. Nonetheless, for those who enjoy historical fiction with a strong sense of adventure, The Eye of Zeitoon is a captivating and satisfying read.

In conclusion, The Eye of Zeitoon by Talbot Mundy is a compelling adventure novel that provides an immersive and thrilling experience. Mundy's vibrant storytelling, well-developed characters, and seamless blending of historical events and fiction make this book an enthralling read from start to finish. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction or simply enjoy gripping tales of adventure, this book is sure to captivate and entertain.

First Page:

I Parthians, Medes and Elamites .............................. 1 II "How did sunshine get into the garden? By whose leave came the wind?" .............................................. 21 III "Sahib, there is always work for real soldiers!" ......... 40 IV "We are the robbers, effendi!" ............................ 52 V "Effendi, that is the heart of Armenia burning!" ........... 74 VI "Passing the buck to Allah!" ............................. 91 VII "We hold you to your word!" .............................. 118 VIII "I go with that man!" ................................... 128 IX "And you left your friend to help me?" ................... 142 X "When I fire this pistol " ................................ 163 XI "That man's dose is death, and he dies unshriven!" ....... 176 XII "America's way with a woman is beyond belief!" .......... 195 XIII " 'Take your squadron and go find him, Rustum Khan!' And I, sahib, obeyed my lord bahadur's orders." ......... 211 XIV "Rajput, I shall hang you if you make more trouble!"...... 229 XV "Scenery to burst the heart!" ... Continue reading book >>