H. Rider Haggard’s "Benita, an African Romance" is a gripping tale of treasure, terror, and transcendent love that showcases the author’s signature blend of historical legend and African adventure. The novel features a resilient and resourceful young woman as its protagonist, Benita Clifford. Her life in South Africa is upended when her financially ruined father is approached by the enigmatic Jacob Meyer, an adventurer who claims to know the location of a legendary Portuguese treasure hidden in a remote fortress in Zimbabwe, known as "Bambatse."

Driven by the hope of restoring her father’s fortune and spirit, Benita agrees to join the perilous expedition. The journey into the interior is dangerous, but the greatest threat awaits at Bambatse, a fortress now sacred to the Matabele people. Trapped within its caverns and besieged by the tribe, the quest transforms into a harrowing psychological thriller. Jacob Meyer, using his hypnotic powers, attempts to force Benita to become a medium, a vessel to communicate with the spirit of a dead Portuguese maiden who knows the treasure’s final secret. Benita is caught between her fading father and the increasingly mad and menacing Meyer, her own sanity and will tested to their limits. The novel evolves from a treasure hunt into a desperate struggle for survival, exploring themes of familial duty, colonial greed, and spiritual possession. "Benita, an African Romance" is an atmospheric adventure that highlights Haggard’s fascination with the dark, mysterious heart of Africa and the extraordinary courage required to confront it.

Table of Contents:

• Benita, an African Romance. Part 1

• Benita, an African Romance. Part 2

• Benita, an African Romance. Part 3

• Benita, an African Romance. Part 4