Most Popular Books by Wilbur Smith

They''ve come from out of the shifting sands and down from ancient mountains. Mounted on horse and camel, carrying gleaming swords and plundered rifles, the sons of Allah are led by a holy warrior imbued with jihad, driving his army of thousands to wipe out the last Englishmen from the isolated Nile city... Along with hundreds of others, British trader and businessman Ryder Courtney is trapped in the capital city of Khartoum. In Khartoum, the fates of a legendary British general, a brilliant, mercenary trader, a beautiful woman and a courageous soldier will become one. They know that time is running out and rescue is improbable. So they prepare for one last stand--and the beginning of an epic journey of survival... From a passionate rivalry for a woman to an unforgettable face-off between warriors, Wilbur Smith''s The Triumph of the Sun is adventure fiction writ large--alive with the sounds of throngs, the terror of battle, and the mystical fire of human courage in the darkest moments of all.

The first ever memoir from the Number One global bestselling adventure author Wilbur Smith has lived an incredible life of adventure, and now he shares the extraordinary true stories that have inspired his fiction. I''ve been writing novels for over fifty years. I was lucky enough to miss the big wars and not get shot, but lucky enough to grow up among the heroes who had served in them and learn from their example. I have lucked into things continuously. I have done things which have seemed appalling at the time,disastrous even, but out of them have come another story or a deeper knowledge of human character and the ability to express myself better on paper, write books which people enjoy reading. Along the way, I have lived a life that I could never have imagined. I have been privileged to meet people from all corners of the globe, I have been wherever my heart has desired and in the process my books have taken readers to many, many places. I always say I''ve started wars, I''ve burned down cities, and I''ve killed hundreds of thousands of people - but only in my imagination! From being attacked by lions to close encounters with deadly reef sharks, from getting lost in the African bush without water to crawling the precarious tunnels of gold mines, from marlin fishing with Lee Marvin to near death from crash-landing a Cessna airplane, from brutal schooldays to redemption through writing and falling in love, Wilbur Smith tells us the intimate stories of his life that have been the raw material for his fiction. Always candid, sometimes hilarious, and never less than thrillingly entertaining, On Leopard Rock is testament to a writer whose life is as rich and eventful as his novels are compellingly unputdownable.

The Burning Shore, another gripping installment in Wilbur Smith''s Courtney Family Adventure series Centaine de Thiry grew up with privilege, wealth, and freedom on a sprawling French estate. Then war came crashing down around her, and a daring young South African aviator named Michael Courtney stole her heart amidst the destruction. But the tides of fate and battle sent the young woman on a journey across a dangerous sea to the coast of Africa. When Centaine''s ship is torpedoed and sunk, she is plunged into a shark-filled sea miles from the unseen shore. And when she reaches land, Centaine puts foot not in the lush world that Michael Courtney described to her, but on the edge of a burning desert--alone and fighting for her life. In a strange world, under a great rushing sky, Centaine sets forth in the company of wandering Bushmen--and then into the arms of a renegade white soldier who may be her savior or destruction. As Michael Courtney''s family searches for Centaine, she comes near her promised land--and the untold tragedy and riches that it holds...

The second Hector Cross thriller The second Hector Cross thriller ''The stench of death follows you, Hector Cross. You are as loathsome as the black hyena. I curse you to your grave, and I shall spit upon it when at last they lay you in it" It''s like a nightmare but he''s wide awake... When Hector Cross'' pregnant wife is shot, he believes the terrorists who nearly destroyed his life have returned to finish the job when he now has so much more to lose. But as he follows the trail across the globe and right back home to London, a new more terrifying battle begins. For there are worse things in Cross'' world than terrorist kidnappers, and those evils are set on obliterating everything Cross holds most dear. Can he save those he loves -- or will he pay the ultimate price for someone else''s mistakes?

Wilbur Smith, one of the world''s most acclaimed adventure writers, returns to the world of ancient Egypt withWarlock, the stunning sequel to the New York Times bestselling River God. In the wake of a sixty-year war over the reign of the kingdoms of Egypt, two young pharaohs have risen to claim power, but only one can succeed, deciding the fate of his empire forever... The mission of Prince Nefer, rightful heir to the throne, is to rebuild a magnificent kingdom in the stark and tumbled ruins of the embattled city of Gallala. The desire of Lord Naja is to destroy his rival and rule the land with unholy supremacy. But Nefer has on his side the warlock Taita, a matchless ally and legendary priest of notorious powers... To see their dream come true, Nefer and Taita must stay one step ahead of the depraved assassin, survive the tortuous shadow of her ever-pursuing armies, and outwit the shocking betrayals of is own flesh and blood. As Nefer''s courage increases, and as Taita''s magic grows more beguiling, so grows stronger the power of their tireless enemies.... Now, with the threat of tyranny and blood thundering closer and closer toward the vulnerable gates of Gallala, the ultimate battle for Egypt will begin...

An action-packed thriller of family, business and betrayal – perfect for fans of Succession – by international bestselling author, Wilbur Smith. Some people will never have enough . . . Johnny Lance was taken in by the Van Der Byls when he was an orphaned boy, and his life has been dedicated to making his adoptive father proud. But his efforts have been in vain, his father loathes him and, in his dying breath, makes one final demand of his biological son, the jealous and vengeful Benedict: to destroy his half-brother. After being tricked into giving his entire fortune to the Van Der Byls Diamond company, Johnny realizes he only needs two things in life, and one of them is Benedict’s sister, the smart and beautiful Tracey. But the obsessive Benedict has been shaped at his father''s hand and will stop at nothing to finish what he started. Even if it means destroying everything . . .

A brand-new Ancient Egyptian epic from the number 1 bestselling author. Global bestselling author of River God and The New Kingdom, Wilbur Smith, returns with the next epic book in his brand-new Ancient Egyptian series. FROM THE RUINS OF BATTLE A HERO MUST RISE FOR THE GLORY OF EGYPT Years of Hyksos rule have seen the plunder of once-mighty Egypt. Though the two kingdoms have now been reunited by the armies of the true Pharaoh, his position is perilous, his rule under threat from those who seek to take advantage of the turmoil created by the overthrow of the Hyksos. Desperate to keep Egypt united, Taita the Magus summons his protégé, Piay, to solve a millennia-old riddle which has the power to secure Egypt''s future forever. But in the tumult of war, an evil has thrived. Malevolent followers of Seth, the god of chaos, are determined to claim this power and usher in a new age of darkness. The fate of Egypt is at stake. Can Piay prevent their land falling into the hands of those who would see its ruin?

A brand-new Ancient Egyptian novel from the master of adventure fiction and global number 1 bestselling author, Wilbur Smith.

For four thousand years, the lavish crypt of the Pharaoh Mamose has never been found-- until the beautiful Egyptologist Royan Al Simma finds a tantalizing clue to its location in the Seventh Scroll, a cryptic document written by the slave Taita. But the location of the crypt and its treasure is a secret others would kill to possess. Only one step ahead of assassins, Royan runs for her life and into the arms of the only man she can trust, Sir Nicholas Quenton-Harper-- a daring man who will stake his fortune and his life to join her hunt for the king''s tomb. Together, they will embark on a breathtaking journey to the most exotic locale on earth, where the greatest mystery of ancient Egypt, a chilling danger, and an explosive passion are waiting. Steeped in ancient mystery, drama, and action, Wilbur Smith''s The Seventh Scroll will pull you in for an adventure of a lifetime.

In this epic African adventure, Wilbur Smith returns to his longest running series -- and the very beginnings of the Courtney family saga in the late seventeenth century -- with co-author Giles Kristian. Henry ''Hal'' Courtney has always lived at sea. He watched his own father executed during the Anglo-Dutch naval war, and spent his entire young adulthood avenging his father''s death. Now a truce has been made between the warring countries and Hal is captain of his own ship the Golden Bough. From the slave markets of Zanzibar to the pirate-riddled waters of the Indian Ocean, Hal leads his crew in and out of the waves of danger. But he soon realizes that just because the war is over, does not mean the battle is won, and the more a man achieves, the more he has to lose. GOLDEN LION follows Hal Courtney''s adventures after the Christians have routed the Muslim invaders in Ethiopia in the mid-seventeenth century. And though conflicts still rage, Hal will face a much more personal enemy bent on revenge. WHEN THE LION FEEDS (1964) introduced the Courtney family to readers around the world. Subsequent Courtney novels traced the fortunes, and misfortunes, of this sprawling, ambitious family, from the dawn of the 18th century to the late 20th century, from Natal in South Africa through Rhodesia and up through East Africa. ''Wilbur Smith is one of those benchmarks against whom others are compared'' The Times ''No one does adventure like Wilbur Smith'' Daily Mirror ''Smith is a master'' Publishers Weekly

Ex-SAS warrior and former private security consultant Major Hector Cross is forced to take the law into his own hands to stop old and new enemies intent on global domination.

Commando leader Peter Stride is dismissed from an antiterrorist unit and soon finds himself in deadly combat with Caliph, who is trying to create a worldwide organization of terrorists.

Worldwide #1 bestselling author Wilbur Smith returns to Ancient Egypt in a captivating new novel that will transport you to extraordinary times. EGYPT IS UNDER ATTACK. Pharaoh Tamose lies mortally wounded. The ancient city of Luxor is surrounded, All seems lost. Taita, advisor to the Pharaoh, prepares for the enemy’s final, fatal push. The ex-slave, now general of Tamose’s armies, is never more ingenious than when all hope is dashed. And this is Egypt’s most desperate hour. With the timely arrival of an old ally, the tide is turned and the Egyptian army feasts upon its retreating foe. But upon his victorious return to Luxor, Taita is seized and branded a traitor. Tamose is dead and a poisonous new era has begun. The new Pharaoh has risen — and he must be stopped… From the glittering temples of Luxor to the Citadel of Sparta, PHARAOH is an intense and powerful novel magnificently transporting you to a time of threat, blood and glory. Master storyteller, Wilbur Smith, is at the very peak of his powers.

The first book in the epic Ballantyne series "She heard another movement pass behind her turn shoulder, a whisper of sound, yet so chilling that she felt all power of movement drained from her legs. He was here, very close in the blackness, toying with her, cruel as a cat. He had smelt her out. Now he crouched over her ready to strike and she could only wait." A mission of duty. A quest for love. Dr Robyn Ballantyne has always worked hard for what she wants. Coming home to Africa after twenty years, she fears there are only three men who may still stand in her way: THE BROTHER Zouga is the only family she''s known for much of her life. Yet she and the celebrated soldier will never quite see eye to eye... THE CAPTAIN Codrington, ambitious British naval officer, wants to give her a perfect life. Could she ever be tamed enough to fit his idea of perfection? THE TRADER Mungo St James, the notorious American merchant, repels her with his slave trading. But Robyn cannot forget what once passed between them. As her adventures begin, Robyn must make decisions that will shape the future for all of them...

The first book in the epic Egyptian series The first book in the epic Egyptian series. ''Fame and popularity breed envy in high places, and the adulation of the mob is fickle. they often take as much pleasure in tearing down the idols that they have grown tired of, as they did in elevating them in the first place. It is safer by far to live unseen and unremarked, as I always attempt to do'' An ancient kingdom. An incredible destiny. Taita is a humble sale; an expert in art, poetry, medicine, and engineering, as well as keeping important secrets, he is the most treasure possession of Lord Intef. Yet when Intef''s beautiful daughter Lostris is married to the Pharaoh, Taita is commanded to follow her, and swiftly finds himself deeper than he ever could have imagined in a world of deception and treachery. But outside the palace, the great kingdom of Egypt is divided, and in even greater danger. Enemies threaten on all sides, and only Taita holds the power to save them all...

Multimillion copy bestselling author Wilbur Smith returns with a brand-new historical epic set in Africa.

The fourth book in the epic Ballantyne series Craig got no further, for Tungata''s anger turned to red fury. He was shaking with it, it clouded his gaze and knotted the muscles at the points of his heavy lantern jaw. "Be silent,''he hissed. ''You meddle in matters that you do not understand, and that do not concern you. Leave this land before they overwhelm you."'' His family''s past. His country''s future. Bestselling author Craig Mellow is tired of fame, and wants only to return to his family''s old home in Zimbabwe. Although it''s now derelict, Craig wants to rebuild and turn Rholands into a functioning ranch and tourist safari, but finds his way unexpectedly blocked by his old friend, now government minister, Tungata Zebiwe. Working with acclaimed photographer Sally-Anne Jay, Craig is able to uncover Tungata''s corruption and continue with his planned restoration. However, there is new fighting on the horizon that may threaten not only Rholands, but the lives of all who live there. In their desperate attempts to escape, Craig and Sally-Anne will learn that no one is truly who they say...

A Courtney Series novel. In this Courtney Series novel by bestselling author, Wilbur Smith, comes an epic story of tragedy, loss, betrayal and courage that brings the reader deep into the seething heart of the French and Indian War. 1754. Inseparable since birth and growing up in India, Theo and Connie Courtney are torn apart by the tragic death of their parents. Theo, wracked with guilt, seeks salvation in combat and conflict, joining the British in the war against the French and Indian army. Connie, believing herself abandoned by her brother, and abused and brutalised by a series of corrupt guardians, makes her way to France, where she is welcomed into high society. Here, she once again finds herself at the mercy of vicious men, whose appetite for war and glory lead her to the frontlines of the French battlefield in North America. As the siblings find their destinies converging once more, they realise that the vengeance and redemption they both desperately seek could cost them their lives . . .

The first ever memoirs from the Number One global bestselling adventure author.

BOOK 9 IN THE EPIC HISTORICAL SAGA OF THE COURTNEY FAMILY, FROM INTERNATIONAL SENSATION WILBUR SMITH ''Smith will take you on an exciting, taut and thrilling journey you will never forget'' - Sun ''With Wilbur Smith the action is never further than the turn of a page'' - Independent ''No one does adventure quite like Smith'' - Daily Mirror A DEADLY MISSION. A HEROIC BATTLE. It is 1667 and the war between the Dutch and the English is escalating rapidly. Sir Francis Courtney, his son Hal and their crew are carried around the southern tip of the African colonies by the good ship Lady Edwina, licensed to attack and seize the treasure-laden ships of the Dutch East India company. When they capture a Dutch trader and hold the passengers to ransom, Sir Francis hopes only for a good price and a small sense of satisfaction. But this is unlawful territory they sail in. An unexpected betrayal will mean those on board must face greater peril than they ever have before - and many good men may never see home again . . . A Courtney Series adventure - Book 1 in the Birds of Prey sequence. Birds of Prey is the ninth novel in the Courtney family saga from Wilbur Smith and the first novel of the Courtney series chronologically. Exploring the thrilling era of the Dutch East India Company, Birds of Prey is perfect reading for historical fiction and adventure fans, and those new to Wilbur Smith.

The New York Times bestselling author of Desert God and Pharaoh adds another chapter to his popular historical saga featuring the seafaring Tom Courtney, the hero of Monsoon and Blue Horizon, with this magnificent swashbuckling saga set in the eighteenth century and packed with action, violence, romance, and rousing adventure. Tom Courtney, one of four sons of master mariner Sir Hal Courtney, once again sets sail on a treacherous journey that will take him across the vast reaches of the ocean and pit him against dangerous enemies in exotic destinations. But just as the winds propel his sails, passion drives his heart. Turning his ship towards the unknown, Tom Courtney will ultimately find his destiny—and lay the future for the Courtney family. Wilbur Smith, the world’s greatest storyteller, once again recreates all the drama, uncertainty, and courage of a bygone era in this thrilling saga of the sea.

The "New York Times" bestselling adventure writer creates a truly exciting tale of danger, courage, and suspense set in colonial South Africa. Martin''s Press.

BOOK 3 IN THE EPIC HISTORICAL SAGA OF THE COURTNEY FAMILY, FROM INTERNATIONAL SENSATION WILBUR SMITH ''Smith will take you on an exciting, taut and thrilling journey you will never forget'' - Sun ''With Wilbur Smith the action is never further than the turn of a page'' - Independent ''No one does adventure quite like Smith'' - Daily Mirror A BATTLE WON. A LEGACY DESTROYED. General Sean Courtney returns from the horrors of the Great War in France, his mind on his heirs and his legacy. Three potential successors are determined to take on all Sean has built: his beautiful but spoiled daughter, Storm, his corrupt, disgraced son, Dirk, and his new assistant Mark Anders, a fellow survivor of the trenches, carved in his own image and as dear to him as a son. As Mark finds himself trapped between Sean''s two children, impossibly besotted with Storm and tormented by Dirk''s jealous loathing, the Courtney legacy lies on rocky foundations. With Sean determined to name a successor, can Mark prove himself worthy before the younger generation of Courtneys destroy him - and the Courtney legacy - in the process? A Courtney series adventure - Book 3 in the When the Lion Feeds trilogy A Sparrow Falls is the epic conclusion to the first sequence in the Courtney family saga from Wilbur Smith, one of the best and most beloved authors of the century. The Courtney series continues with The Burning Shore sequence. Book 4 in the Courtney family series, The Burning Shore, is available now.

The Sound of Thunder, a Courtney Family Adventure by Wilbur Smith The year is 1899. The British Empire is at the height of its power. But in South Africa, proud Dutch colonists defy the Queen and her army--and a lush, wild world is torn apart by guns, spears, and swords. Sean Courtney had been tragically separated from his family, but the Boer War has brought him back to his homeland--and into the sights of his enemy''s guns. It has also returned him to Ruth Friedman, the only woman Sean can love, even though he shouldn''t. As Sean''s loyalties--to nation, man, and blood--are tested, a saga of duty and betrayal unfolds....

BOOK 12 OF THE EPIC HISTORICAL SAGA OF THE COURTNEY FAMILY, FROM INTERNATIONAL SENSATION WILBUR SMITH ''Smith will take you on an exciting, taut and thrilling journey you will never forget'' - Sun ''With Wilbur Smith the action is never further than the turn of a page'' - Independent ''No one does adventure quite like Smith'' - Daily Mirror A SECRET MISSION. A WORLD AT STAKE. As the world stands on the cusp of war, ex-soldier Leon Courtney is recruited by his uncle, General Penrod Ballantyne, to undertake a dangerous secret mission - spying on the Germans in East Africa, whom the General suspects are preparing for the Kaiser''s war. Posing as a professional game hunter Leon is tasked with gathering information on one of his clients, wealthy industrialist Otto von Meerbach. Leon finds himself falling for von Meerbach''s beautiful mistress, Eva von Wellberg and the two begin a secret love affair. When Leon uncovers Meerbach''s plot to raise a rebellion against Britain among the disenchanted survivors of the Boer war, Leon finds himself desperately fighting a battle against time, but is his true enemy closer to home than he ever expected? A Courtney Series adventure - Book 1 in the Assegai sequence. Assegai is the twelfth novel in the Courtney family saga from Wilbur Smith and the first in the Assegai sequence, exploring the two world wars through the eyes of the Courtney family. Book 13 in the Courtney family series, Golden Lion, is available now.

Third high-octane instalment in the bestselling author''s compelling Jack Courtney Adventures for readers 10+, following CLOUDBURST and THUNDERBOLT. On the pretext of making a film for his mother''s environmental protection work, Jack wangles an expedition to the Arctic with his friends Amelia and Xander and cousin Caleb. But Xander''s investigations into the mysterious backers funding their adventure raises Jack''s suspicions. Is the renewable energy investment company really as environmentally responsible as it claims to be? While sledding with dogs, ice fishing, driving snowmobiles and sleeping in a self-made igloo, accidents beset them. Then disaster strikes when Caleb takes on a pack of wolves. Can Jack really trust his mother''s friend Jonny Armfield to come to their help, or is he part of the problem?