By the Gods Beloved by Baroness Emmuska Orczy

"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 · First published 1905 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure · 31 chapters · 110,162 words

First lines

It is a curious fact that, although Hugh Tankerville was destined to play such an all-absorbing part in the strange and mystic drama which filled both our lives, I have no distinct recollection of my first meeting with him.

We were at St. Paul's School together, and I, a boisterous schoolboy of the usual pattern, have but a vague memory of the silent, dark-eyed lad, who hated football, and was generally voted to be a "bookworm," called "Sawnie Girlie," and was, without exception, the most unpopular boy in the school.

• Open reader

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Genres

• Historical Fiction — The novel is set against a richly detailed historical backdrop that blends historical facts with the author's imaginative storytelling.
• Fantasy — The title and narrative incorporate mythological and supernatural elements, reflecting an engagement with legendary deities and fantastical themes.
• Adventure — The plot features thrilling quests, dramatic conflicts, and high-stakes action characteristic of adventure literature.
• Romance — Interpersonal relationships and emotional undercurrents contribute to the narrative, adding a layer of romantic intrigue.

Tags

historical · adventure · romance · drama · epic · heroism · betrayal · suspense · intrigue · action · loyalty · destiny

What this Textopian page supports

By the Gods Beloved is listed on Textopian as a novel by Baroness Emmuska Orczy, dated 1905 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

• Work type: Novel
• Author: Baroness Emmuska Orczy
• Date: 1905 CE
• Language: English
• Genres: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure, Romance
• Length: 110,162 words
• Structure: 31 chapters, 1,749 paragraphs
• Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

Good citation fit

• Work identity for By the Gods Beloved by Baroness Emmuska Orczy
• Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
• Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
• Readability and classroom-planning context
• Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

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 (1909)
• The Hocussing of Cigarette (1909)
• The Tragedy in Dartmoor Terrace (1909)
• Who Stole the Black Diamonds? (1909)
• The Murder of Miss Pebmarsh (1909)
• The Lisson Grove Mystery (1909)
• All works by Baroness Emmuska Orczy