King of the Khyber Rifles is a thrilling adventure novel set in British India during the early 20th century. The story follows Captain Athelstan King, a British officer stationed in the Khyber Pass, as he navigates the treacherous political landscape of the region.

What sets this book apart is its detailed and vivid descriptions of the rugged terrain and the diverse characters that inhabit it. The author, Talbot Mundy, does a superb job of creating a sense of place and immersing the reader in the sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling markets, dusty streets, and dangerous mountain passes of the Khyber region.

The plot is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat until the very end. Captain King is a complex and compelling protagonist, torn between his loyalty to the British Empire and his admiration for the fierce Afghan tribesmen he encounters.

Overall, King of the Khyber Rifles is a gripping and well-written novel that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and adventure stories. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an exciting and immersive read.

Book Description:
Athelstan King is a British Secret Agent stationed in India at the beginning of WWI. He is attached to the Khyber Rifles regiment as a cover, but his real job is to prevent a holy war. "To stop a holy war single-handed would be rather like stopping the wind--possibly easy enough, if one knew the way." King is ordered to work with a mysterious and powerful Eastern woman, Yasmini. Can King afford to trust her? Can he afford not to? (Introduction by Brett W. Downey)