Lord of Light: A Novel of Historical Adventure

Smugglers. Collectors. Murder.

Welcome to the Interwar Underworld.

If you love Peter Hopkirk’s masterpiece The Great Game, the brilliant rascality of George MacDonald Fraser’s 'Flashman,'the sharp international intrigue of 'The Maltese Falcon,' and the heartfelt buccaneering of Travis McGee, you’ll love Matthew Ismail’s adventures of Hugh Wilkinson.

The Stakes

It’s the volatile era between the World Wars. A rare and breathtaking statue of the Pharaoh Akhenaten has been stolen from the Egyptian Museum, igniting a lethal feeding frenzy among smugglers and greedy collectors across Europe and the Middle East. They are willing to murder, steal, and betray to possess the "Lord of Light."

When the artifact briefly lands in the hands of a shady London antiquities dealer, it is promptly stolen again. Desperate, the dealer hires Greek-English adventurer Hugh Wilkinson to retrieve it. The bounty? Half the statue's astronomical black-market value—a life-changing fortune, provided Hugh survives long enough to collect it.

The Journey

What follows is a classic, old-school adventure across continents and cultures. Stretching from the foggy streets of London to the dangerous alleys of Istanbul, Lord of Light features a vibrant cast of rascals, crooks, and heroes.

Meticulously researched and written out of a pure love for classic historical fiction, this is a gripping tale of romance, danger, and deception.

Jump in and enjoy the journey!

Cover of the book 'Lord of the Light' showing a large blue sphinx with a human face and animal features, set against pyramids, palm trees, and a dramatic sky with clouds and birds.

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Market scene, Constantinople, Turkey 1908 (Library of Congress)

Black and white photo of a busy outdoor market scene with people walking, talking, and shopping under trees and umbrellas.