The Rider Haggard Library
Fiction & Audio Drama
About
Step with us beyond the edge of the known world. The Rider Haggard Library invites you into realms of lost kingdoms and deathless queens, of perilous quests beneath African suns and ancient cities long swallowed by the sands of Time. Here burn the undying flames of romance and destiny; here brave hearts wager life and soul against treasure, prophecy, and the dark mysteries of forgotten ages. In these readings, the great tales are restored to living voice, not as relics upon a dusty shelf, but as living adventures, wherein courage is tested, empires tremble, and Fate walks close beside the traveller. Come, then. The map is drawn. The flame yet burns. And the road into the unknown lies open before you.
Episodes
- Lysbeth Book 2 Chapter 16 - The Master
Chapter 16 of Lysbeth, Book 2, details the household's struggle with a secret treasure, facing political and personal dangers. Young Adrian seeks advice from a mysterious master to win Elsa's affection as threats intensify.
- Lysbeth Book 2 Chapter 18 - Foy Sees a Vision
Chapter 18 of Lysbeth Book 2 details Lysbeth's household dealing with a secret trust and impending danger, while Adrian experiences the pain of unrequited love after Elsa rejects him.
- Lysbeth Book 2 Chapter 17 - Betrothed
In Chapter 17, Adrian seeks a love philtre for Elsa as the Inquisition casts a shadow. Lysbeth and Elsa confront dangers from the past, leading to a tentative betrothal under a climate of fear.
- Lysbeth Book 2 Chapter 15 - Senor Ramiro
Chapter 15 of Lysbeth Book 2 features the transformed Count Juan de Montalvo, now Señor Ramiro, plotting to acquire a treasure, setting up a conflict with Lysbeth van Goorl. Foy van Goorl also returns with significant news and a hidden bur…
- Lysbeth Book 2 Chapter 13 - Mother's Gifts are Good Gifts
This episode covers Chapter 13 of Book 2 of Lysbeth, detailing Foy and Martin's journey through The Hague, their meeting with Hendrik Brant, and their subsequent escape via the canals.
- Lysbeth Book 2 Chapter 14 - Sword Silence Receives the Secret
In Chapter 14 of Lysbeth Book 2, characters on a moonless night are pursued by enemies and seek refuge on inland waters guided by Mother Martha. They employ a strategy to protect their cargo, resulting in significant changes.
- Lysbeth Book 2 Chapter 11 - Adrian Resuces Beauty in Distress
Chapter 11 of Lysbeth Book 2 details Adrian's rescue of Elsa Brant near Leyden. Upon returning to the van Goorl household, Adrian confronts uneasy welcomes, family strife, and rejection due to his heritage.
- Lysbeth Book 2 Chapter 12 - The Summons
This episode covers Chapter 12 of Book 2 of Lysbeth, detailing the aftermath of a violent altercation, the decoding of a mysterious letter, and preparations for a perilous journey.
- Lysbeth Book 2 Chapter 10 - Adrain Goes Out Hawking
This episode introduces Black Meg and the Butcher, who are preparing for a clandestine mission for a Spanish agent. Meanwhile, Adrian van Goorl, facing inner turmoil, turns to poetry and hawking for escape.
- Lysbeth Book 1 Chapter 8 - The Mare's Stable
This episode covers Chapter 8 of Book 1 of "Lysbeth." Lysbeth finds refuge on an island with Martha the Mare and reconnects with Dirk van Goorl.
- Lysbeth Book 2 Chapter 9 - Adrian, Foy, and Martin the Red
This episode covers Chapter 9 of Book 2 of Lysbeth, detailing the impact of tyrannical wrath on the Netherlands and the secret gatherings of steadfast souls. It follows the lives of Dirk, his sons, and their servant as they face oppression.
- Lysbeth Book 1 Chapter 7 - Hendirk Brant Has a Visitor
In Chapter 7 of Lysbeth, Book 1, the narrative focuses on Lysbeth's unhappy marriage and financial troubles. Simultaneously, Hendrik Brant encounters a visitor with documents that suggest deceit and foreshadow future consequences.
- Lysbeth Book 1 Chapter 4 - Three Wakings
Chapter 4 of "Lysbeth" details three awakenings, revealing the schemes and motivations of Dirk van Goorl, Lysbeth van Hout, and Captain Montalvo amidst the complex social and religious landscape of Leyden.
- Lysbeth Book 1 Chapter 5 - The Dream of Dirk
Chapter 5 of 'Lysbeth' details Dirk's struggles with misunderstandings and Captain Montalvo while preparing a significant dinner. The chapter also features a mysterious visit and a disturbing dream that foreshadows future events.
- Lysbeth Book 1 Chapter 6 - The Betrothal of Lysbeth
Chapter 6 of Lysbeth Book 1 details Black Meg's discovery of evidence influencing Captain Montalvo's pursuit of Lysbeth. The episode explores themes of faith, love, and power amidst religious persecution, forcing Lysbeth into a difficult d…
- Lysbeth Book 1 Chapter 2 - She Who Buys -Pays
Chapter 2 of Lysbeth Book 1 describes Lysbeth
- Lysbeth Book 1 Chapter 1 - The Wolf and the Badger
Chapter 1 of Lysbeth, Book 1, set during an ice carnival in Leyden, depicts Lysbeth van Hout dealing with suitors and religious conflict. The narrative follows her journey between duty and passion as unfolding destinies loom.
- Lysbeth Book 1 Chapter 3 - Montalvo Wins a Trick
Chapter 3 of Lysbeth Book 1 details Count Juan de Montalvo's arrival at Lysbeth's home, where he navigates social dynamics during a supper. He impresses guests with his intellect and demeanor.
- The People of the Mist Envoi - The End of the Adventure
The episode details Leonard Outram's return to London, where he discovers a surprising inheritance and unresolved romantic entanglements. The adventure concludes with restored fortune but lingering memories.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 40 - Otter's Farewell
Chapter 40 of The People of the Mist details Leonard Outram and Juanna Rodd's rescue by Sydney Wallace. They return to England with their companion Otter, ready for new beginnings while confronting past memories.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 37 - "I am Repaid, Queen"
In "The People of the Mist" Chapter 37, Leonard, Juanna, and their captains face dire circumstances as they attempt to escape pursuing priests through a secret mountain passage, confronting harsh conditions, enemy forces, and a crucial ice…
- The People of the Mist Chapter 38 - The Triumph of Nam
In Chapter 38 of The People of the Mist, characters confront a perilous ice-bridge crossing. They face challenges while dealing with loss and a desperate plea from another figure.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 39 - The Passing of the Bridge
In Chapter 39 of The People of the Mist, Leonard, Juanna, and Otter survive a dangerous crossing over an ice bridge thanks to Otter's help, finding shelter under a tree as night approaches.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 36 - How Otter Came Back
In Chapter 36 of The People of the Mist, Otter makes a daring escape and reunion with his master. After overcoming obstacles, they turn the tables on their captors, only to encounter a new, shadowy threat.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 34 - Nam's Last Argument
In Chapter 34 of The People of the Mist, Juanna is given a harsh ultimatum by Nam and Soa: marry savage king Olfan or her captive beloved, Leonard, will be thrown into an abyss. Juanna grapples with her decision in her cell, considering lo…
- The People of the Mist Chapter 35 - Be Nobel or be Base
In Chapter 35 of The People of the Mist, King Olfan offers marriage to the captive Juanna as a means of protection. She feigns acceptance to save her beloved, then uses her new royal authority to confront treacherous plots.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 32 - How Otter Fought the Water Dweller
Otter confronts and slays the Water Dweller in a cave, overcoming the creature's terror. Afterwards, he explores the cave and emerges onto a large glacier.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 33 - Trapped
In Chapter 33, titled 'Trapped', Leonard finds himself confined in a secret temple cell while carrying an unconscious Juanna. He becomes aware of the sacrifices made for them and observes ominous omens, but Juanna's awakening offers a glim…
- The People of the Mist Chapter 31 - The White Dawn
Chapter 31 of The People of the Mist details a somber ritual at dawn on a snowy mountain, involving a captive dwarf, perilous heights, and a lurking reptile, highlighting the tension between faith and fate.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 29 - The Trial of the Gods
In The People of the Mist Chapter 29, a tribunal is held in the temple to judge celestial visitors who allegedly changed ancient customs. A surprising witness appears, creating conflict before a trial at dawn.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 30 - Francisco's Expiation
This episode covers Chapter 30 of 'The People of the Mist,' focusing on the characters confronting sacrifice, sharing confessions, and devising a plan involving disguise and an ally.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 28 - Juanna Prevaricates
In Chapter 28 of The People of the Mist, Juanna faces a trial that forces her to reveal difficult truths to King Olfan. Her companions prepare for a grim night, armed with resolve and a potent poison.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 25 - The Sacrifice After the New Order
Chapter 25 of The People of the Mist details the transformation of the sacred feast of Jâl by Juanna and Otter, leading to resistance from the People of the Mist. The adventurers face increasing danger, isolation, and suspicion within the…
- The People of the Mist Chapter 27 - Father and Daughter
Chapter 27 of The People of the Mist, titled Father and Daughter, delves into priest Nam's internal conflict, a clandestine reunion between father and daughter, and the difficult circumstances faced by captives under the looming threat of…
- The People of the Mist Chapter 26 - The Last of the Settlement Men
Chapter 26 of The People of the Mist details the mysterious disappearances of the Settlement men, with Soa suspected due to her resentment. Leonard maintains a vigil over her as fear and foreboding grow.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 22 - The Temple of Jal
Chapter 22 of The People of the Mist finds Leonard and his companions entering the temple of Jâl. They witness ancient rites and the eerie splendor of the cult within its dark and solemn depths.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 23 - How Juanna Conquered Nam
Chapter 23 of The People of the Mist details solemn rites presided over by Juanna, where new decrees challenge ancient customs. Amidst a ceremony featuring strange idols and beasts, a few individuals rise to reshape their people's destiny.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 24 - Olfan Tells of the Rubies
Chapter 24 of The People of the Mist follows Leonard and his companions as they navigate post-temple challenges, witness the People's internal conflicts, and hear Olfan recount details about the rubies and local traditions.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 19 - The End of the Journey
In Chapter 19 of The People of the Mist, the travelers undertake a dangerous climb, find minimal shelter on a plain with giants, and finally see the fabled city, only to face imminent armed conflict.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 20 - The Coming of Aca
In Chapter 20 of The People of the Mist, Juanna takes on the guise of a goddess, adorned with a ruby. She captivates the warriors of the People of the Mist with a song in their ancient tongue, inspiring their reverent worship.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 21 - The Folly of Otter
In Chapter 21 of 'The People of the Mist,' Juanna and Otter are perceived as divine beings by a local population and enter their city to maintain their false godly roles. Otter's impulsive actions create instability, hinting at future diff…
- The People of the Mist Chapter 18 - Soa Shows Her Teeth
Leonard and his company, guided by Soa, are nearing the fabled land of the People of the Mist. They face warnings and dread as they prepare to cross a natural barrier, wrestling with fear and loyalty.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 16 - Misunderstandings
Chapter 16 of The People of the Mist, "Misunderstandings," explores the evolving relationship between Leonard and Juanna as they journey down a river shrouded in mist. The episode delves into their candid revelations, unspoken past affecti…
- The People of the Mist Chapter 17 - The Death of Mavoom
In Chapter 17, the party returns to find a settlement in ruins. Juanna is welcomed back and learns of her father's dire condition, leading to her being placed under Leonard's care. Leonard contemplates his feelings and duties regarding Jua…
- The People of the Mist Chapter 13 - A Midnight Marriage
Chapter 13 of 'The People of the Mist' depicts a compelled, unnatural marriage among unsavoury characters. A young priest faces a conflict of duty and conscience, leading to a struggle for freedom as marshes catch fire.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 14 - Vengence
In Chapter 14 of 'The People of the Mist,' titled 'Vengeance,' besieged survivors defend their camp with a desperate, fiery strategy involving a cannon. The episode details the grim reckoning and consequences for their enemies amidst the b…
- The People of the Mist Chapter 15 - Disillusion
Chapter 15, "Disillusion," sees travelers release slaves and pursue treasure. Leonard Outram and Juanna Rodd deal with complex emotions following their controversial marriage, exploring themes of honor and commerce.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 10 - Leonard Makes a Plan
Chapter 10 of The People of the Mist details Leonard and his companions' plan to infiltrate a slave camp called the Nest. They devise a stratagem to liberate a captive amidst the shadows.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 12 - A Choice Lot
In Chapter 12 of The People of the Mist, a stranger navigates a dangerous gathering of ruffians, earning uneasy acceptance. A harrowing auction reveals a white girl's fate, igniting defiance and secret hope among the hardened men.
- The People of the Mist Chapter 11 - The Hero Otter
In Chapter 11 of The People of the Mist, Leonard and Otter execute a daring rescue of captives from a slave-camp by conquering its drawbridge. They then prepare to set reeds ablaze as a signal and confront Dom Pereira and his villainous me…