The Prisoner of Zenda

Set in the fictional European country of Ruritania, the adventure novels by Anthony Hope, particularly The Prisoner of Zenda and its sequel Rupert of Hentzau, are celebrated for their engaging plots and romantic intrigue. These works are pivotal in establishing the Ruritanian romance genre, influencing numerous adaptations, including a notable 1937 film. Despite being a prolific author with 32 volumes, Hope's legacy primarily rests on these two "minor classics," which continue to captivate readers with their themes of identity and adventure.