Alexandria

Alexandria by Dr Edmund Richardson is an enthralling exploration of a lost city, a captivating tale that intertwines history, adventure, and mystery. Set against the backdrop of the 19th century, this extraordinary story delves into the lost city of Alexandria Beneath the Mountains, a place where East met West until it mysteriously vanished. In 1833, the city was discovered in Afghanistan by an unlikely hero: Charles Masson, born an ordinary working-class boy in London who transformed into a deserter, pilgrim, doctor, archaeologist, and highly respected scholar. Masson’s journey into this ancient world is nothing short of remarkable. His path leads him to share tea with kings, travel with holy men, and master countless disguises. He becomes a pivotal figure in an era defined by the Great Game, where imperial powers like the East India Company and Russia clashed in the awe-inspiring landscapes of India and Afghanistan. Masson’s discoveries are monumental, including tens of thousands of Afghan historical artefacts such as the Bimaran golden casket, which depicts the earliest known face of the Buddha. His contributions and experiences offer a rare glimpse into a world unseen by Western eyes, revealing a tale of espionage, geopolitical intrigue, and cultural encounters. This meticulously researched narrative expertly balances historical accuracy with the engaging and complex plotting reminiscent of a John le Carré novel, making Alexandria an utterly compelling read. Dr Richardson's vivid storytelling and Masson’s adventures evoke a world rich in detail and drama, where personal endeavour and historical events collide with spectacular consequences. Endorsed by various literary reviewers, its praises include:

‘Superb … impeccably researched, but with the pace and deftly woven plot complexity of a John le Carré novel ... utterly brilliant’ William Dalrymple, Guardian

‘[An] exceptional biography ... This is a jewel of a book’ Sunday Times

‘A brilliant and evocative biography, written with consummate scholarship, great style and wit’ Daily Telegraph

For those fascinated by the adventures of historical figures and the mysteries embedded in our past, Alexandria promises a wild journey through the deserts and mountains at the edge of empire. It is a story of relentless pursuit, danger, and an obsession passed down through the centuries.

Chosen as a Book of the Year by the Spectator, Listener, and Sydney Morning Herald