A Cabinet Secret

"A Cabinet Secret" by Guy Boothby is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the Second Boer War, the book introduces a tale of conspiracy that aims to exploit the vulnerabilities of the British Empire during a tumultuous period. The story features complex characters engaging in espionage, with the narrative unfolding around the enigmatic Countess de Venetza and the shadowy figures intertwined with her life. The opening of the novel sets a dramatic tone with a picturesque scene in Naples, where two men are anxiously awaiting the arrival of a yacht carrying the Countess. Their dialogue reveals their involvement in a scheme that could potentially destabilize a great empire, hinting at themes of intrigue and deception. As they plan to intercept the Countess upon her arrival, the narrative also introduces her charm and beauty, leaving an impression that her role is crucial in the unfolding events. Tension builds around their intentions and the secretive nature of their mission, creating anticipation for the reader about the imminent clash of duty and desire that will define the characters' interactions throughout the story. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Guy Newell Boothby was a prolific Australian novelist and writer, noted for sensational fiction in variety magazines around the end 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, a tale of Gothic Egypt, mummies' curses and supernatural revenge. Rudyard Kipling was his friend and mentor, and his books were remembered with affection by George Orwell.