A Secret of the Lebombo By: Bertram Mitford (1855-1914)
Bertram Mitford's novel, A Secret of the Lebombo, takes readers on a captivating journey through the untamed African landscape of the late 19th century. Set against a backdrop of mystery, adventure, and colonial tensions, Mitford weaves a tale that is equal parts thrilling and thought-provoking. The story follows Captain Frank Everard, a brave British soldier stationed in South Africa, as he becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind a secret treasure hidden deep within the Lebombo mountains. With the help of a local guide, Mavovo, and a motley crew of characters, Everard embarks on a treacherous quest filled with danger, deception, and unexpected alliances. Mitford's prose effortlessly transports readers to the African wilderness, vividly describing the vast landscapes, dense jungles, and vibrant wildlife. His attention to detail is commendable, as he skillfully incorporates the customs, traditions, and beliefs of the native tribes into the narrative, making the setting come alive. The characters in the book are richly developed, each with their own quirks and flaws. Captain Everard is a compelling protagonist, driven by both a desire for adventure and a sense of duty. Mavovo, with his deep knowledge of the land and its secrets, adds an air of mysticism and wisdom to the story. The supporting cast, including a ruthless German adventurer and a fiercely independent Englishwoman, adds depth and complexity to the plot. One of the standout aspects of A Secret of the Lebombo is its exploration of the complex dynamics between the colonial powers and the native populations. Mitford delves into the themes of imperialism, exploitation, and cultural clashes with great sensitivity and nuance. This allows readers to reflect upon the era's historical context while immersing themselves in the thrilling narrative. As the plot unfolds, suspense builds steadily, making it nearly impossible to put the book down. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of intense action followed by quieter introspective passages. Mitford's expert storytelling keeps readers engrossed until the very last page, as they eagerly follow the characters' journey through perilous terrain, encounters with wild animals, and face-offs with treacherous adversaries. In conclusion, A Secret of the Lebombo is a captivating adventure novel that blends history, mystery, and exploration seamlessly. Bertram Mitford's descriptive prose, well-developed characters, and meticulous attention to detail make for an enthralling read. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction or simply seeking an exhilarating escape, this book is bound to satisfy your literary cravings. First Page: A Secret of the Lebombo, by Bertram Mitford. A SECRET OF THE LEBOMBO, BY BERTRAM MITFORD. CHAPTER ONE. THE SHEEP STEALERS. The sun flamed down from a cloudless sky upon the green and gold of the wide valley, hot and sensuous in the early afternoon. The joyous piping of sheeny spreeuws mingled with the crowing of cock koorhans concealed amid the grass, or noisily taking to flight to fuss up half a dozen others in the process. Mingled, too, with all this, came the swirl of the red, turgid river, whose high banked, willow fringed bed cut a dark contrasting line through the lighter hue of the prevailing bush. From his perch a white necked crow was debating in his mind as to whether a certain diminutive tortoise crawling among the stones was worth the trouble of cracking and eating, or not. Wyvern moved stealthily forward, step by step, his pulses tingling with excitement. Then parting some boughs which came in the way he peered down into the donga which lay beneath. What he saw was not a pleasant sight, but it was what he had expected to see. Two Kafirs were engaged in the congenial, to them, occupation of butchering a sheep... Continue reading book >>

A Secret of the Lebombo By: Bertram Mitford (1855-1914)

Bertram Mitford's novel, A Secret of the Lebombo, takes readers on a captivating journey through the untamed African landscape of the late 19th century. Set against a backdrop of mystery, adventure, and colonial tensions, Mitford weaves a tale that is equal parts thrilling and thought-provoking.

The story follows Captain Frank Everard, a brave British soldier stationed in South Africa, as he becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind a secret treasure hidden deep within the Lebombo mountains. With the help of a local guide, Mavovo, and a motley crew of characters, Everard embarks on a treacherous quest filled with danger, deception, and unexpected alliances.

Mitford's prose effortlessly transports readers to the African wilderness, vividly describing the vast landscapes, dense jungles, and vibrant wildlife. His attention to detail is commendable, as he skillfully incorporates the customs, traditions, and beliefs of the native tribes into the narrative, making the setting come alive.

The characters in the book are richly developed, each with their own quirks and flaws. Captain Everard is a compelling protagonist, driven by both a desire for adventure and a sense of duty. Mavovo, with his deep knowledge of the land and its secrets, adds an air of mysticism and wisdom to the story. The supporting cast, including a ruthless German adventurer and a fiercely independent Englishwoman, adds depth and complexity to the plot.

One of the standout aspects of A Secret of the Lebombo is its exploration of the complex dynamics between the colonial powers and the native populations. Mitford delves into the themes of imperialism, exploitation, and cultural clashes with great sensitivity and nuance. This allows readers to reflect upon the era's historical context while immersing themselves in the thrilling narrative.

As the plot unfolds, suspense builds steadily, making it nearly impossible to put the book down. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of intense action followed by quieter introspective passages. Mitford's expert storytelling keeps readers engrossed until the very last page, as they eagerly follow the characters' journey through perilous terrain, encounters with wild animals, and face-offs with treacherous adversaries.

In conclusion, A Secret of the Lebombo is a captivating adventure novel that blends history, mystery, and exploration seamlessly. Bertram Mitford's descriptive prose, well-developed characters, and meticulous attention to detail make for an enthralling read. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction or simply seeking an exhilarating escape, this book is bound to satisfy your literary cravings.

First Page:

A Secret of the Lebombo, by Bertram Mitford.

A SECRET OF THE LEBOMBO, BY BERTRAM MITFORD.

CHAPTER ONE.

THE SHEEP STEALERS.

The sun flamed down from a cloudless sky upon the green and gold of the wide valley, hot and sensuous in the early afternoon. The joyous piping of sheeny spreeuws mingled with the crowing of cock koorhans concealed amid the grass, or noisily taking to flight to fuss up half a dozen others in the process. Mingled, too, with all this, came the swirl of the red, turgid river, whose high banked, willow fringed bed cut a dark contrasting line through the lighter hue of the prevailing bush. From his perch a white necked crow was debating in his mind as to whether a certain diminutive tortoise crawling among the stones was worth the trouble of cracking and eating, or not.

Wyvern moved stealthily forward, step by step, his pulses tingling with excitement. Then parting some boughs which came in the way he peered down into the donga which lay beneath. What he saw was not a pleasant sight, but it was what he had expected to see.

Two Kafirs were engaged in the congenial, to them, occupation of butchering a sheep... Continue reading book >>

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