Guy Newell Boothby was a prolific Australian novelist and writer, noted for sensational fiction in variety magazines around the turn of the nineteenth century. He lived mainly in England. He is best known for such works as the Dr. Nikola series, about an occultist criminal mastermind who is a Victorian forerunner to Fu Manchu, and Pharos, the Egyptian. Rudyard Kipling was his friend and mentor, and his books were remembered with affection by George Orwell.This book is contained 12 ...

A prolific Australian novelist, Guy Boothby was noted for sensational fiction in variety magazines around the end of the nineteenth century. His most famous creation is Dr. Nikola, an occultist criminal mastermind, who serves as a Victorian forerunner to Fu Manchu. This comprehensive eBook presents Boothby’s collected works, with numerous illustrations, rare texts appearing in digital print for the first time, informative introductions and the usual Delphi bonus material. (Version ...

Guy Newell Boothby, born in Adelaide, was one of the most popular of Australian authors in the late 19th and early 20th century, writing dozens of novels of sensational fiction.A Bid for Fortune, or Dr. Nikola's Vendetta is the first of his series of five books featuring the sinister mastermind Dr. Nikola, a character of gothic appearance usually accompanied by a large black cat, and who has powers of mesmerism.In this first novel, the protagonist is a young Australian, Ric...

The manager of the new Imperial Restaurant on the Thames Embankment went into his luxurious private office and shut the door. Having done so, he first scratched his chin reflectively, and then took a letter from the drawer in which it had reposed for more than two months and perused it carefully. Though he was not aware of it, this was the thirtieth time he had read it since breakfast that morning. And yet he was not a whit nearer understanding it than he had been at the beginning. He turn...

The story begins with Esther, who is raised by her wealthy uncle, Sir Richard Vancourt. Esther is in love with Sir Richard's ward, Gilbert Vaughan, but their relationship faces obstacles due to social expectations and familial interference. When Sir Richard arranges a marriage for Esther with the wealthy but unscrupulous Julian Harnwell, she finds herself torn between duty and her true feelings.As the narrative unfolds, Esther must navigate the complexities of her personal desires and soci...

The story follows the adventures of the protagonist, who is likely a European adventurer or explorer, drawn into a web of intrigue and danger in a remote, exotic location—possibly in the jungles of Borneo or another part of Southeast Asia.The White Devil: The title character, known as the Beautiful White Devil, is a mysterious and seductive woman who captivates and ensnares the protagonist and other characters in the story. Her motives and true nature are ambiguous, adding to the suspense ...

In "Long Live the King!", Boothby tells the story of an ambitious and charismatic character named Cigarette, who rises to power in a fictional South American country. The novel follows Cigarette's ascent to the throne and the political machinations and conflicts that ensue as he attempts to maintain his rule.The title, "Long Live the King!", suggests themes of power, loyalty, and the challenges of leadership. Boothby's writing typically features richly drawn characters, intricate plots, an...

"In Strange Company" follows the adventures of the protagonist, who finds himself embroiled in thrilling and perilous situations:Introduction of the Protagonist: The story introduces a character who ventures into the unknown regions of Chile and the Southern Seas, driven by a sense of adventure and discovery.Exotic Settings: The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of diverse and captivating landscapes, from the bustling streets of Chilean cities to the remote islands and waters of the S...

In the history of humanity there is perhaps one civilisation that everyone feels both drawn to and be a part of: Egypt.Its history in measured in millenniums and its culture has dominated others before being woven into the fabric of others. Its legacy and its accomplishments are legion.In this volume our many classic authors explore their own understanding, exploration and connection with characters and narratives that step out of time to guide us on a fascinating literary ...

The story follows the adventures of the protagonist, Gaston, a Frenchman who inherits the title and wealth of the Duke of Bellecour. Gaston is drawn into a mysterious and perilous world when he becomes involved with a secret society led by the enigmatic figure known as Pharos, an Egyptian mystic with supernatural powers.Pharos, who possesses ancient knowledge and mystical abilities, seeks to establish a new world order and overthrow the existing social order. He recruits Gaston as his disc...

In "A Bid for Fortune," readers are introduced to the enigmatic character of Dr. Nikola, a brilliant and unscrupulous villain who uses his intellect and resources to pursue his own sinister agenda. The novel follows the protagonist, Richard Hatteras, as he becomes entangled in Dr. Nikola's schemes and seeks to thwart his plans.Guy Boothby's novels often feature elements of mystery, suspense, and exotic locales, and "A Bid for Fortune" is no exception. The story is filled with thrilling twi...

In "Farewell, Nikola," the story likely revolves around Dr. Nikola's final adventure or encounter, as suggested by the title. Dr. Nikola is known for his intelligence, cunning, and unorthodox methods, often involved in solving mysteries or navigating dangerous situations across various exotic locations.Boothby's writing style in "Farewell, Nikola" combines elements of adventure, suspense, and the supernatural, as Dr. Nikola faces formidable challenges and adversaries. The novel typically f...