By the Gods Beloved

A novel written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around Hugh Tankerville and his friend Mark, who become enmeshed in the mysteries of ancient Egyptian history and archaeology. Their journey takes them into the heart of the Libyan desert in search of a mythical land known as Kamt, promising adventure, danger, and profound discoveries. The opening of the novel introduces us to the two main characters during their school days, laying the groundwork for their deep friendship. Hugh, a quiet and academically inclined boy, eventually becomes a passionate Egyptologist influenced by his father’s work and an obsession with the ancient civilization's mysteries. As they grow older, their paths diverge due to circumstances, but they are eventually reunited as Hugh is consumed by an all-absorbing endeavor related to a fragmentary papyrus he inherited from his late father. The narrative sets up their expedition to find Kamt, combining elements of adventure and intrigue as they navigate a desolate landscape while grappling with the enigmatic past of ancient Egyptian civilization.