"Begum's Fortune" is a captivating novel that takes readers on a thrilling adventure through the Indian subcontinent. Jules Verne's vivid descriptions bring the bustling streets of Calcutta to life, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and culture of this fascinating region. The story follows the journey of a group of characters as they seek to uncover the mysterious fortune left by Begum, a wealthy Indian noblewoman. Along the way, they encounter danger, intrigue, and unexpected twists that keep the reader on the edge of their seat.

Verne's writing is both engaging and thought-provoking, touching on themes of greed, loyalty, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their own motivations and flaws that drive the narrative forward. The pacing of the story is excellent, with plenty of suspenseful moments and unexpected revelations to keep readers guessing until the very end.

Overall, "Begum's Fortune" is a fantastic read that will appeal to fans of adventure, mystery, and historical fiction. Verne's masterful storytelling and immersive world-building make this a novel that is hard to put down. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a gripping and satisfying read.

Book Description:
A novel with some utopian elements, but primarily dystopian. A French doctor and a German professor both inherit a vast fortune as descendants of a French soldier who married the rich widow of an Indian prince. They both decide to go to America and establish their own "ideal" society. Dr. Sarrasin, the French doctor, is focused on maintaining public health. He builds Ville-France. Professor Schultze, the German scientist, is a bit of a militarist and racist. He builds Stahlstadt and devotes his city to the production of ever more powerful weapons so that he can destroy Sarrasin's city. They manage to get the US to cede sovereignty to two cities so that the two newly rich men can create their utopia. The setting for Ville-France would place it on the Oregon Coast, near Bandon, Oregon. The location for the second city, Stahlstadt, is less clear, but the description would place it somewhere near Roseburg, Oregon. - Summary by Kate Follis