Desert Air 1905 By: Robert Smythe Hichens (1864-1950)
Robert Smythe Hichens takes readers on a captivating journey through the scorching deserts of Egypt in his novel, Desert Air 1905. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, this book offers a rich and immersive experience that transports readers to a time of exploration and cultural fascination. The story follows the protagonist, a British adventurer named Richard Austin, who embarks on a perilous quest into the heart of the Egyptian desert. Along the way, he encounters a myriad of colorful characters, each with their own secrets and desires. Through Austin's encounters with these individuals, Hichens skillfully weaves a tapestry of passion, mystery, and profound introspection. What truly sets Desert Air 1905 apart is Hichens' exceptional ability to capture the essence of the desert itself. His vivid descriptions of the barren landscape, the scorching heat, and the ethereal beauty of the sand dunes make the reader feel as though they too are wandering through this desolate yet alluring terrain. The author's evident passion for Egypt shines through on every page, immersing readers in its rich cultural heritage and captivating landscapes. Furthermore, Hichens' characters are exquisitely developed, each possessing a unique voice and depth that brings them to life. Through their interactions, the author explores themes of love, desire, and the pursuit of one's most fervent aspirations. These characters, with their flaws and vulnerabilities, will undoubtedly resonate with readers, eliciting empathy and a deep connection. For all its strengths, Desert Air 1905 does suffer from a slightly slow-paced narrative at times. While this languid pace might not be to everyone's taste, it enables Hichens to delve into the intricacies of his characters' lives and emotions, adding to the novel's overall depth. Patience is rewarded as the story gradually unfolds, revealing unexpected twists and turns that take the reader on an unpredictable adventure. In conclusion, Desert Air 1905 is an evocative and enthralling novel that beautifully captures the spirit of exploration and the allure of the Egyptian desert. Hichens' masterful storytelling and evocative prose offer readers a captivating experience, transporting them to a time and place filled with mystery, love, and self-discovery. Fans of historical fiction and exotic settings will find themselves captivated by this enchanting tale. First Page: DESERT AIR By Robert Hichens Frederick A. Stokes Company Publishers Copyright, 1905 I On an evening of last summer I was dining in London at the Carlton with two men. One of them was an excellent type of young England, strong, healthy, athletic, and straightforward. The other was a clever London doctor who was building up a great practice in the West End. At dessert the conversation turned upon a then recent tragedy in which a great reputation had gone down, and young England spoke rather contemptuously of the victim, with the superior surprise human beings generally express about the sin which does not happen to be theirs. "I can't understand it!" was his conclusion. "It's beyond me." "Climate," said the doctor quietly. "What?" "Climate. Air." Young England looked inexpressively astonished. "But hang it all!" he exclaimed, "you don't mean to say change of air means change of nature?" "Not to everyone. Not to you, perhaps. Have you travelled much?" "Well, I've been to Paris for the Grand Prix, and to Monte " "For the gambling. That's hardly travelling. Now, I've studied this subject a little, quietly in Harley Street. I'm no traveller myself, but I have dozens of patients who are. And I'm convinced that the modern facilities for travel, besides giving an infinity of pleasure, bring about innumerable tragedies... Continue reading book >>

Desert Air 1905 By: Robert Smythe Hichens (1864-1950)

Robert Smythe Hichens takes readers on a captivating journey through the scorching deserts of Egypt in his novel, Desert Air 1905. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, this book offers a rich and immersive experience that transports readers to a time of exploration and cultural fascination.

The story follows the protagonist, a British adventurer named Richard Austin, who embarks on a perilous quest into the heart of the Egyptian desert. Along the way, he encounters a myriad of colorful characters, each with their own secrets and desires. Through Austin's encounters with these individuals, Hichens skillfully weaves a tapestry of passion, mystery, and profound introspection.

What truly sets Desert Air 1905 apart is Hichens' exceptional ability to capture the essence of the desert itself. His vivid descriptions of the barren landscape, the scorching heat, and the ethereal beauty of the sand dunes make the reader feel as though they too are wandering through this desolate yet alluring terrain. The author's evident passion for Egypt shines through on every page, immersing readers in its rich cultural heritage and captivating landscapes.

Furthermore, Hichens' characters are exquisitely developed, each possessing a unique voice and depth that brings them to life. Through their interactions, the author explores themes of love, desire, and the pursuit of one's most fervent aspirations. These characters, with their flaws and vulnerabilities, will undoubtedly resonate with readers, eliciting empathy and a deep connection.

For all its strengths, Desert Air 1905 does suffer from a slightly slow-paced narrative at times. While this languid pace might not be to everyone's taste, it enables Hichens to delve into the intricacies of his characters' lives and emotions, adding to the novel's overall depth. Patience is rewarded as the story gradually unfolds, revealing unexpected twists and turns that take the reader on an unpredictable adventure.

In conclusion, Desert Air 1905 is an evocative and enthralling novel that beautifully captures the spirit of exploration and the allure of the Egyptian desert. Hichens' masterful storytelling and evocative prose offer readers a captivating experience, transporting them to a time and place filled with mystery, love, and self-discovery. Fans of historical fiction and exotic settings will find themselves captivated by this enchanting tale.

First Page:

DESERT AIR

By Robert Hichens

Frederick A. Stokes Company Publishers

On an evening of last summer I was dining in London at the Carlton with two men. One of them was an excellent type of young England, strong, healthy, athletic, and straightforward. The other was a clever London doctor who was building up a great practice in the West End. At dessert the conversation turned upon a then recent tragedy in which a great reputation had gone down, and young England spoke rather contemptuously of the victim, with the superior surprise human beings generally express about the sin which does not happen to be theirs.

"I can't understand it!" was his conclusion. "It's beyond me."

"Climate," said the doctor quietly.

"What?"

"Climate. Air."

Young England looked inexpressively astonished.

"But hang it all!" he exclaimed, "you don't mean to say change of air means change of nature?"

"Not to everyone. Not to you, perhaps. Have you travelled much?"

"Well, I've been to Paris for the Grand Prix, and to Monte "

"For the gambling. That's hardly travelling. Now, I've studied this subject a little, quietly in Harley Street. I'm no traveller myself, but I have dozens of patients who are. And I'm convinced that the modern facilities for travel, besides giving an infinity of pleasure, bring about innumerable tragedies... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Short stories

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Wikipedia – Robert Smythe Hichens
Wikipedia – Desert Air 1905

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