The Prisoner of Zenda

Swordfights, midnight rides, castles and dungeons... The Prisoner of Zenda is the classic romantic adventure! When Rudolf Rassendyll decides to take a journey to see his distant cousin crowned king of Ruritania, it soon becomes apparent that it is not going to be a routine trip. The first indication of this comes with the realization that he bears an uncanny resemblance to his cousin. Added to that there is the discovery that Black Michael, a relative of the rightful king, is determined to prevent the coronation taking place, so that he might receive the crown himself. What follows is an adventure involving abduction, imprisonment and deceit. As the story races to its conclusion, Rudolf Rassendyll faces choices that will determine not only his future, but the futures of King Rudolf, Princess Flavia and the whole of Ruritania. Published in 1894, The Prisoner of Zenda launched Hope's writing career, and was followed by the sequel, Rupert of Hentzau.