By the Gods Beloved

"By the Gods Beloved" by Baroness Emmuska Orczy is a historical novel set in ancient Egypt, revolving around the life of Hugh Tankerville, a young man who becomes embroiled in a mystical and dramatic adventure. The story begins with Hugh's school days, where he is an unpopular, bookish boy, but forms a close friendship with the narrator, Mark. Hugh's fascination with ancient Egypt is kindled by his father, a renowned Egyptologist, who shares his theories about a lost period in Egyptian history following the reign of Queen Neit-akrit. As the narrative unfolds, Hugh and Mark embark on a daring expedition to uncover the secrets of this lost civilization. They travel across the Libyan desert, guided by ancient papyri, in search of a hidden land where the descendants of the original Egyptians are believed to reside. Their journey is fraught with challenges, including the harsh desert environment and the skepticism of the scientific community. Upon reaching their destination, they discover a thriving civilization that has remained isolated for thousands of years. Hugh, with his knowledge of the ancient language and customs, is hailed as a divine emissary by the people, who believe he has been sent by the gods. He is drawn into the political and social intrigues of this hidden world, where he encounters Queen Maat-kha and the enigmatic Princess Neit-akrit. The novel explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the clash between modernity and ancient traditions. Hugh's journey is not only a physical quest but also a spiritual one, as he grapples with his identity and the responsibilities thrust upon him by his newfound status. The story culminates in a dramatic confrontation with the high priest Ur-tasen, who challenges Hugh's authority and the legitimacy of his divine mission. "By the Gods Beloved" is a tale of adventure and discovery, blending historical fiction with elements of fantasy and romance. It captures the allure of ancient Egypt and the enduring mystery of its lost civilizations, while also delving into the complexities of human nature and the power of belief.

By Baroness Emmuska Orczy · Genre: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure · 31 chapters

Contents

• Tankerville's Hobby
• The Shade of Neit-Akrit
• The Tomb of the Greek Priest
• The Rock of Anubis
• The Gates of Kamt
• The Temple of Ra
• The Temple of Ra
• The Idol of the People
• The Messenger of Princess Neit-Akrit
• The Judgment-Hall of Men-Ne-Fer
• The Trial of Kesh-Ta, the Slave
• The Crown of Kamt
• The Iridescent Scarabæus
• The Making of an Enemy
• Neit-Akrit, Princess of Kamt
• Divinely Fair
• Danger
• Love or Hate?
• A Kiss
• A Letter from Hugh
• A Debt of Honour
• The Bridal City
• The Crime
• The Alternative
• Helpless
• The Marriage
• White Rosemary
• The Threat
• The Departure from Tanis
• Rosemary for Remembrance
• The End

More by Baroness Emmuska Orczy

• The Emperor's Candlesticks (1899)
• Lady Molly of Scotland Yard (1910)
• The Case of Miss Elliott (1905)
• The Hocussing of Cigarette
• The Tragedy in Dartmoor Terrace
• Who Stole the Black Diamonds? (1935)
• The Murder of Miss Pebmarsh
• The Lisson Grove Mystery
• All works by Baroness Emmuska Orczy