The Indiscretion of the Duchess

Set in the fictional country of Ruritania, the adventure novels by Anthony Hope, particularly The Prisoner of Zenda and its sequel Rupert of Hentzau, are celebrated for establishing the Ruritanian romance genre. These "minor classics" of English literature blend intrigue, romance, and political drama, captivating readers since their publication in the late 19th century. The enduring popularity of Zenda has led to numerous adaptations, including a notable 1937 film, highlighting Hope's significant impact on adventure storytelling.