If you're looking for a swashbuckling Victorian adventure about dark caves, wild tribes and quests for hidden treasures and diamonds, this is your book. My 12 & 14 year old kids gave it pretty good ratings.

There are a lot of coincidences in this just when tragedy is about to strike: Quartermain just happens to have the book that notes an eclipse will convince the king they are gods, a gust of fresh air will lead to an escape from a sealed cave, just before the adventurers die of thirst a lush green "hidden" valley will appear, and a stone will suddenly crush the crazy witch.

I bet this was a real thriller in its day. Good thing I wasn't wearing a corset like a Victorian lady while I was reading or I might have fainted at all the close calls!

I cannot wait to read this book. Unfortunately, the library does not have The Brethren, one of my most favorite by Haggard. The brethren was a breathtaking tale full of adventure that I absolutely loved. I am expecting great things out of this book!

Maybe the best (or worst, depending on your perspective) example of British imperial/empire adventure fiction. Also see Kipling's stories.