The Green Eyes of Bâst   By: Sax Rohmer (1883-1959)

The Green Eyes of Bâst by Sax Rohmer is a thrilling and captivating novel that takes readers on a journey filled with mystery, suspense, and adventure. Set in 1920s London, the story centers around a series of gruesome murders that lead the protagonist, Paul Harley, an investigative journalist, into a web of ancient Egyptian cults and supernatural forces.

Right from the first page, Rohmer's descriptive writing style and attention to detail engrosses the reader, making the setting and characters come alive. From the dark and eerie streets of London to the exotic landscapes of Egypt, the author creates a vivid backdrop that sets the tone for the unfolding events.

One of the strongest aspects of this novel is the character development. Paul Harley is a complex and multifaceted protagonist, who is not only intelligent and resourceful but also flawed and vulnerable. As he delves deeper into the mystery, his personal demons and internal conflicts add an extra layer of depth to the story, making him relatable and engaging.

The plot is intricately woven, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Rohmer expertly combines elements of Egyptian mythology, occult practices, and traditional detective fiction to create a unique and compelling storyline. The exploration of ancient rituals and supernatural phenomena adds an eerie atmosphere and an element of danger that adds to the suspense throughout the novel.

The supporting characters, particularly Dr. McMurdoch and Madame De Stämer, are well-developed and add additional intrigue and complexity to the story. Their knowledge and involvement in the occult world of ancient Egypt bring a sense of authenticity and credibility to the plot.

However, at times, the pacing of the story slows down, with long dialogues and exposition that detract from the overall momentum. While these moments provide essential information and backstory, they could have been trimmed down to maintain a faster pace.

Despite this minor flaw, The Green Eyes of Bâst remains a captivating and enthralling read. Rohmer's ability to blend real-world settings with the supernatural creates a sense of unease and suspense that permeates the pages. The climactic ending is satisfying, tying up loose ends and leaving readers wanting more.

In conclusion, The Green Eyes of Bâst is a beautifully written and captivating novel that seamlessly blends elements of mystery, supernatural, and Egyptian mythology. With compelling characters, an intriguing plot, and a vivid setting, Sax Rohmer delivers a thrilling literary experience that will keep readers hooked until the very end.

First Page:

I. I SEE THE EYES 1 II. THE SIGN OF THE CAT 12 III. THE GREEN IMAGE 22 IV. ISOBEL 32 V. THE INTERRUPTED SUPPER 41 VI. THE VOICE 52 VII. THE CAT OF BUBASTIS 63 VIII. MY VISITOR 73 IX. THE VELVET CURTAIN 84 X. "HANGING EVIDENCE" 95 XI. THE SCARRED MAN 105 XII. I DREAM OF GREEN EYES 117 XIII. DR. DAMAR GREEFE 125 XIV... Continue reading book >>