The Cryptogram A Novel By: James De Mille (1833-1880)
The Cryptogram is a captivating novel written by James De Mille that takes readers on a thrilling and mysterious adventure. Set in the late 19th century, the story is filled with rich historical details, intriguing characters, and a plot that keeps you guessing until the very end. The novel follows the main protagonist, a young and ambitious archaeologist named Clarence who stumbles upon a cryptic message while exploring an ancient ruin in Egypt. This discovery sets off a chain of events that leads Clarence and his companions on a dangerous quest to decipher the cryptogram and uncover its hidden secrets. De Mille's writing style is both descriptive and immersive, vividly bringing to life the exotic landscapes and treacherous situations that the characters find themselves in. From the chaotic streets of Cairo to the perilous deserts, each setting is intricately depicted, making the reader feel like they are right alongside the characters. What sets The Cryptogram apart is De Mille's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to seamlessly interweave historical events with fiction. The author's extensive research is evident throughout the novel, adding depth and authenticity to the story. From the political tensions of the time to the different cultures and belief systems, everything is meticulously portrayed, enhancing the overall reading experience. The characters in The Cryptogram are well-developed and relatable, each with their own motivations and secrets. Clarence, in particular, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the narrative, evolving from a naive explorer to a determined adventurer willing to risk everything for the truth. The supporting cast, including his loyal companions and enigmatic adversaries, provide a rich tapestry of personalities that keeps readers engaged and invested in the outcome. One of the highlights of the novel is the constant sense of suspense and intrigue that permeates the narrative. The cryptogram itself becomes an enigma, with each clue leading to new discoveries and unforeseen dangers. De Mille builds tension masterfully, making it difficult to put the book down as I eagerly awaited the resolution of each mysterious twist and turn. If there is any criticism of The Cryptogram, it would lie in the occasional slow pacing and exposition-heavy moments that interrupt the flow of the story. However, these instances are few and far between, and do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the novel. In conclusion, The Cryptogram is a delightful historical adventure that will appeal to fans of both mystery and historical fiction. James De Mille's impeccable research and engaging storytelling make for an enthralling read that keeps you guessing until the very end. It is a book that seamlessly merges history, archaeology, and intrigue, making it a must-read for any lover of the genre. First Page: [Illustration: "These Are My Dearest Children."] THE CRYPTOGRAM. A Novel. By James De Mille, Author of "The Dodge Club," "Cord and Creese," "The American Baron," etc. WITH ILLUSTRATIONS New York: Harper & Brothers, Publishers, Franklin Square. 1872 CHAPTER I. TWO OLD FRIENDS. Chetwynde Castle was a large baronial mansion, belonging to the Plantagenet period, and situated in Monmouthshire. It was a grand old place, with dark towers, and turrets, and gloomy walls surmounted with battlements, half of which had long since tumbled down, while the other half seemed tottering to ruin. That menacing ruin was on one side of the structure concealed beneath a growth of ivy, which contrasted the dark green of its leaves with the sombre hue of the ancient stones. Time with its defacing fingers had only lent additional grandeur to this venerable pile. As it rose there "standing with half its battlements alone, and with five hundred years of ivy grown" its picturesque magnificence and its air of hoar antiquity made it one of the noblest monuments of the past which England could show. All its surroundings were in keeping with the central object. Here were no neat paths, no well kept avenues, no trim lawns. On the contrary, every thing bore the unmistakable marks of neglect and decay; the walks were overgrown, the terraces dilapidated, and the rose pleasaunce had degenerated into a tangled mass of bushes and briers... Continue reading book >>

The Cryptogram A Novel By: James De Mille (1833-1880)

The Cryptogram is a captivating novel written by James De Mille that takes readers on a thrilling and mysterious adventure. Set in the late 19th century, the story is filled with rich historical details, intriguing characters, and a plot that keeps you guessing until the very end.

The novel follows the main protagonist, a young and ambitious archaeologist named Clarence who stumbles upon a cryptic message while exploring an ancient ruin in Egypt. This discovery sets off a chain of events that leads Clarence and his companions on a dangerous quest to decipher the cryptogram and uncover its hidden secrets.

De Mille's writing style is both descriptive and immersive, vividly bringing to life the exotic landscapes and treacherous situations that the characters find themselves in. From the chaotic streets of Cairo to the perilous deserts, each setting is intricately depicted, making the reader feel like they are right alongside the characters.

What sets The Cryptogram apart is De Mille's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to seamlessly interweave historical events with fiction. The author's extensive research is evident throughout the novel, adding depth and authenticity to the story. From the political tensions of the time to the different cultures and belief systems, everything is meticulously portrayed, enhancing the overall reading experience.

The characters in The Cryptogram are well-developed and relatable, each with their own motivations and secrets. Clarence, in particular, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the narrative, evolving from a naive explorer to a determined adventurer willing to risk everything for the truth. The supporting cast, including his loyal companions and enigmatic adversaries, provide a rich tapestry of personalities that keeps readers engaged and invested in the outcome.

One of the highlights of the novel is the constant sense of suspense and intrigue that permeates the narrative. The cryptogram itself becomes an enigma, with each clue leading to new discoveries and unforeseen dangers. De Mille builds tension masterfully, making it difficult to put the book down as I eagerly awaited the resolution of each mysterious twist and turn.

If there is any criticism of The Cryptogram, it would lie in the occasional slow pacing and exposition-heavy moments that interrupt the flow of the story. However, these instances are few and far between, and do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the novel.

In conclusion, The Cryptogram is a delightful historical adventure that will appeal to fans of both mystery and historical fiction. James De Mille's impeccable research and engaging storytelling make for an enthralling read that keeps you guessing until the very end. It is a book that seamlessly merges history, archaeology, and intrigue, making it a must-read for any lover of the genre.

First Page:

[Illustration: "These Are My Dearest Children."]

THE CRYPTOGRAM.

A Novel.

By James De Mille,

Author of "The Dodge Club," "Cord and Creese," "The American Baron," etc.

WITH ILLUSTRATIONS

New York: Harper & Brothers, Publishers, Franklin Square. 1872

CHAPTER I.

TWO OLD FRIENDS.

Chetwynde Castle was a large baronial mansion, belonging to the Plantagenet period, and situated in Monmouthshire. It was a grand old place, with dark towers, and turrets, and gloomy walls surmounted with battlements, half of which had long since tumbled down, while the other half seemed tottering to ruin. That menacing ruin was on one side of the structure concealed beneath a growth of ivy, which contrasted the dark green of its leaves with the sombre hue of the ancient stones. Time with its defacing fingers had only lent additional grandeur to this venerable pile. As it rose there "standing with half its battlements alone, and with five hundred years of ivy grown" its picturesque magnificence and its air of hoar antiquity made it one of the noblest monuments of the past which England could show.

All its surroundings were in keeping with the central object. Here were no neat paths, no well kept avenues, no trim lawns. On the contrary, every thing bore the unmistakable marks of neglect and decay; the walks were overgrown, the terraces dilapidated, and the rose pleasaunce had degenerated into a tangled mass of bushes and briers... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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Wikipedia – The Cryptogram A Novel

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