The Hidden Kingdom
A.L. Burt, 1927. Item #82134
Early Reprint edition. Very Good condition.
“The Hidden Kingdom” by Francis Beeding is a lesser-known espionage thriller first published in the early 20th century by the British writing duo John Leslie Palmer and Hilary St. George Saunders, who wrote under the shared pseudonym Francis Beeding. The pair were known for their clever and fast-paced spy novels, often centered around international intrigue and European politics between the World Wars.
About the Book:
• Genre: Spy thriller / Political adventure
• Published: 1932
• Themes: Secret societies, hidden powers, espionage, and the threat of authoritarian regimes.
Summary:
The Hidden Kingdom follows the exploits of Colonel Alastair Granby, a recurring Beeding protagonist, as he uncovers a secret plot involving a mysterious kingdom hidden within Europe. The narrative is packed with cryptic symbols, secret meetings, political conspiracies, and covert operations. The book explores the dangers of rising totalitarianism and reflects the tense geopolitical climate of the 1930s.
Of note are the swastika-like patterns on the cover (a pre-Nazi design often used in antiquity), which adds a chilling layer of context considering the era. While fictional, the book was ahead of its time in portraying shadowy threats to global stability.
Price: $25.00