Wilbur Smith was a British-South African novelist who specialized in historical fiction about international involvement in Southern Africa across four centuries. He published 49 novels, 14 of which were co-authored with his son, Christopher Smith. His first novel, When the Lion Feeds, was published in 1964 and became an international bestseller. Smith’s novels have been translated into more than 30 languages and have sold over 120 million copies worldwide.
Here is a list of all Wilbur Smith’s books, in order of publication by category:
Courtney Books
Wilbur Smith’s Courtney books comprise a series of historical fiction novels set predominantly in Africa. Spanning several generations of the Courtney family, the series intricately weaves together themes of adventure, romance, and power struggles against the backdrop of Africa’s rich landscapes and turbulent history. Through vivid storytelling and dynamic characters, Smith transports readers to different epochs, from the early days of colonialism to the tumultuous periods of war and independence. With sweeping narratives and meticulous attention to historical detail, the Courtney books offer readers an immersive journey through the trials and triumphs of the Courtney family as they navigate love, loss, and the pursuit of fortune in the untamed African wilderness.
When the Lion Feeds (1964)
When the Lion Feeds is Wilbur Smith’s debut novel and the first installment in The Courtney Family Saga. It tells the story of Sean Courtney, a young man growing up in the harsh and unforgiving wilderness of South Africa in the late 19th century. Sean is a skilled hunter and fighter, and he dreams of one day owning his own farm. But when his twin brother, Garrick, is injured in a hunting accident, Sean’s life is turned upside down. Garrick becomes bitter and resentful, and he begins to manipulate Sean for his own gain. Sean must learn to stand up for himself and overcome his brother’s schemes, all while navigating the dangerous and ever-changing world of colonial South Africa.
Assegai (1972)
Wilbur Smith’s Assegai is the first novel in The Assegai Trilogy, a series of novels that tells the story of the Courtney family during the Second Boer War. The novel follows the lives of several generations of Courtneys as they fight for their country and their way of life. Assegai is a story of courage, sacrifice, and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. The novel is notable for its vivid descriptions of the South African landscape and its realistic portrayal of the brutality of the Second Boer War.
The Sound of Thunder (1976)
The Sound of Thunder is the second novel in Wilbur Smith’s The Courtney Family Saga. It picks up the story of Sean Courtney several years after the events of When the Lion Feeds, as he finds himself caught up in the Second Boer War. Sean is now a grown man, married with a child, but he is still haunted by the ghosts of his past. When the war breaks out, Sean is forced to choose between his loyalty to his family and his duty to his country. It is a powerful and moving account of the devastating impact of war on individuals and families. It is also a story of love, loss, and redemption. Sean must overcome his own personal demons in order to lead his family and his country through the darkest of times.
The Triumph of the Sun (1981)
The Triumph of the Sun is a sweeping epic that tells the story of the Courtney family during the latter half of the 19th century. The novel follows the lives of several generations of Courtneys as they navigate the challenges of life in South Africa. The Triumph of the Sun is a story of love, loss, and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. The novel is notable for its vivid descriptions of the African landscape and its realistic portrayal of the harsh realities of life in colonial South Africa.
The Burning Shore (1985)
The Burning Shore is the first novel in Wilbur Smith’s The Burning Shore Sequence, a trilogy that tells the story of the Courtney family during World War I and the aftermath. The novel follows the lives of Michael Courtney, a British pilot, and Centaine de Thiry, a French aristocrat. Michael and Centaine fall in love during the war, but their relationship is tested by the challenges of war and the prejudices of their respective societies. The Burning Shore is a sweeping epic that captures the drama and romance of World War I. It is also a story about the power of love to overcome even the most difficult obstacles. Michael and Centaine’s relationship is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity.
Power of the Sword (1986)
Power of the Sword is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that continues the saga of the Courtney family in South Africa. Set in the early 20th century, the novel follows the adventures of Lothar de la Rey, a charismatic and ambitious Afrikaner. Lothar is determined to build a new empire for himself, but he must first overcome the challenges posed by his enemies, both British and Boer. It is a story of greed, betrayal, and revenge, but it is also a story of love and redemption. Lothar is a complex and flawed character, but he is also a man of great courage and determination. In the end, he must learn that the true power of the sword is not in its blade, but in the heart.
Rage (1987)
Wilbur Smith’s Rage is a gripping and suspenseful novel that follows the adventures of Sean Courtney, the protagonist of The Courtney Family Saga. Set in the early 20th century, the novel finds Sean caught up in the chaos of the First World War. Sean must use all of his skills and cunning to survive on the battlefield and to protect his loved ones from harm. Rage is a story of courage, determination, and the power of the human spirit. Sean Courtney is a complex and compelling character who must overcome great challenges in order to emerge victorious.
Golden Fox (1990)
Golden Fox is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that follows the adventures of Garrick Courtney, the antagonist of The Courtney Family Saga. Garrick is a ruthless and ambitious man who is determined to destroy the Courtney family. Garrick must use all of his cunning and resources to achieve his goals, but he is ultimately defeated by the Courtneys’ strength and resilience. It is a story of good versus evil, and it is a reminder that the Courtney family will always stand together against their enemies.
A Time to Die (1994)
A Time to Die is a powerful and moving novel that explores the themes of love, loss, and redemption. Set in the aftermath of World War II, the novel follows the lives of two former lovers, Sean Courtney and Centaine de Thiry. Sean and Centaine are reunited after many years apart, but they must soon face the reality that their time together is limited. It is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.
Birds of Prey (1996)
Birds of Prey is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that follows the adventures of Sean Courtney and his son, Sean Courtney Jr. Set in the early 20th century, the novel finds the Courtneys caught up in the intrigue and danger of the oil industry. Sean and Sean Jr. must use all of their skills and cunning to survive in this dangerous world and to protect their family’s interests. It is a story of courage, determination, and the power of family. Sean Courtney Jr. is a worthy successor to his father, and he proves himself to be a formidable adversary in the oil industry.
Monsoon (1999)
Monsoon is a sweeping epic that tells the story of the Courtney family during World War II. The novel follows the lives of several generations of Courtneys as they fight for their country and their way of life. Monsoon is a story of courage, sacrifice, and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. The novel is notable for its vivid descriptions of the Burmese jungle and its realistic portrayal of the horrors of war.
Blue Horizon (2001)
Blue Horizon is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that follows the adventures of Sean Courtney and his grandchildren. Set in the late 20th century, the novel finds the Courtneys caught up in the dangerous world of international terrorism. Sean and his grandchildren must use all of their skills and cunning to survive and to protect their family’s interests. Blue Horizon is a story of courage, determination, and the power of family. Sean Courtney is a force to be reckoned with, even in his old age, and his grandchildren are more than capable of following in his footsteps.
A Sparrow Falls (2009)
A Sparrow Falls is the third novel in Wilbur Smith’s The Courtney Series, a saga that spans generations and follows the lives of a family of pioneers in South Africa. The novel tells the story of Saffron Courtney, a young woman who must overcome the challenges of life on the frontier in order to build a new life for herself and her family. It is a story about courage, determination, and the power of the human spirit. Saffron Courtney is a remarkable character who inspires us with her strength and resilience. In the end, she proves that anything is possible if you set your mind to it.
Golden Lion (2015)
Golden Lion is a collaborative novel by Wilbur Smith and Giles Kristian. It is the first novel in the Egyptian series, which tells the story of Taita, a slave who rises to become a powerful and influential figure in ancient Egypt. Golden Lion is a sweeping epic that brings to life the ancient world of Egypt. It is a story of adventure, intrigue, and romance.
War Cry (2016)
War Cry is a collaborative novel by Wilbur Smith and David Churchill. It is the second novel in the Egyptian series, and it continues the story of Taita as he navigates the dangerous and ever-changing world of ancient Egypt. War Cry is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is full of action and adventure. It is also a story about the importance of family and the power of love to overcome hatred.
The Tiger’s Prey (2017)
The Tiger’s Prey is a collaborative novel by Wilbur Smith and Tom Harper. It is the third novel in the Egyptian series, and it brings the story of Taita to a dramatic conclusion. The Tiger’s Prey is a satisfying and epic conclusion to the Egyptian series. It is a story about the power of good to overcome evil, and it is a reminder that even the most ordinary person can make a difference in the world.
Courtney’s War (2018)
Courtney’s War is a collaborative novel by Wilbur Smith and David Churchill. It is the fourth novel in The Assegai Trilogy, and it tells the story of Mungo Courtney, the son of Sean Courtney, as he fights for his country in World War I. Courtney’s War is a gripping and suspenseful novel that is full of action and adventure. It is also a story about the importance of family and the power of love to overcome hatred.
King of Kings (2019)
King of Kings tells the story of two families, the Courtneys and the Ballantynes, as they navigate the dangers and opportunities of South Africa in the early 20th century. King of Kings is a sweeping epic that brings to life the vibrant world of South Africa. It is a story of love, loss, and redemption.
Ghost Fire (2020)
Ghost Fire is a collaborative novel by Wilbur Smith and Tom Harper. It is the fifth novel in The Courtney Series, and it tells the story of Saffron Courtney, Sean Courtney’s granddaughter, as she fights to save her family’s farm from a ruthless mining company. It is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is full of action and adventure. It is also a story about the importance of family and the power of love to overcome greed.
Legacy of War (2021)
Legacy of War is a collaborative novel by Wilbur Smith and David Churchill. It is the sixth novel in The Courtney Series, and it tells the story of Mungo Courtney’s son, Sean Courtney III, as he fights to protect his family’s legacy during World War II. Legacy of War is a gripping and suspenseful novel that is full of action and adventure. It is also a story about the importance of family and the power of love to overcome hatred.
Storm Tide (2022)
Storm Tide is a collaborative novel by Wilbur Smith and Tom Harper. It is the seventh novel in The Courtney Series, and it tells the story of Saffron Courtney’s daughter, Saffron Courtney II, as she fights to save her family’s business from a powerful and corrupt corporation. It is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is full of action and adventure. It is also a story about the importance of family and the power of love to overcome corruption.
Nemesis (2023)
Nemesis is a collaborative novel by Wilbur Smith and Tom Harper. It is the eighth and final novel in The Courtney Series, and it brings the story of the Courtney family to a dramatic conclusion. Nemesis is a satisfying and epic conclusion to The Courtney Series. It is a story about the power of good to overcome evil, and it is a reminder that even the most ordinary person can make
Jack Courtney Books
The Jack Courtney books focus on the adventures of Jack Courtney, a member of the Courtney family introduced in the larger Courtney series. Set against the backdrop of colonial Africa, these novels dig into Jack’s exploits as he faces various challenges, including quests for wealth, battles against adversaries, and journeys of self-discovery amidst the rugged landscapes and political upheavals of the continent.
Cloudburst (2020)
Cloudburst is the first novel in Wilbur Smith’s Jack Courtney Adventures series for young readers. It tells the story of a 14-year-old boy, Jack Courtney, who travels to the Democratic Republic of Congo with his parents and friends for a gorilla conservation conference. However, when Jack’s parents go missing, he must use all of his skills and cunning to find them and uncover the secrets of the nearby tantalum mines.
Thunderbolt (2021)
Thunderbolt is the second novel in Wilbur Smith’s Jack Courtney Adventures series. It follows Jack and his friends as they travel to the South African bushveld to investigate a mysterious poaching ring. However, when Jack is captured by the poachers, he must find a way to escape and save his friends.
Shockwave (2022)
Shockwave is the third novel in Wilbur Smith’s Jack Courtney Adventures series. It follows Jack and his friends as they travel to the Arctic to investigate a renewable energy company that is not as environmentally responsible as it claims to be. However, when Jack discovers that the company is also involved in a dangerous military experiment, he must find a way to stop them before it’s too late.
Ballantyne Books
The Ballantyne books follow the adventures of the Ballantyne family across generations in colonial Africa. They are set against the backdrop of the African wilderness with its sweeping landscapes, epic conflicts, and rich historical detail. From the early days of exploration and settlement to the tumultuous periods of war and political upheaval, the Ballantyne books offer readers a captivating blend of adventure, romance, and intrigue intertwined with the triazls and tribulations of the pioneering Ballantyne clan.
A Falcon Flies / Flight of the Falcon (1980)
A Falcon Flies / Flight of the Falcon is a sweeping epic that tells the story of Sean Courtney, a young man growing up in the harsh and unforgiving wilderness of South Africa in the late 19th century. Sean is a skilled hunter and fighter, and he dreams of one day owning his own farm. But when his twin brother, Garrick, is injured in a hunting accident, Sean’s life is turned upside down. Garrick becomes bitter and resentful, and he begins to manipulate Sean for his own gain. Sean must learn to stand up for himself and overcome his brother’s schemes, all while navigating the dangerous and ever-changing world of colonial South Africa.
Men of Men (1981)
Men of Men is the second novel in Wilbur Smith’s The Courtney Family Saga. It picks up the story of Sean Courtney several years after the events of A Falcon Flies / Flight of the Falcon, as he finds himself caught up in the Second Boer War. Sean is now a grown man, married with a child, but he is still haunted by the ghosts of his past. When the war breaks out, Sean is forced to choose between his loyalty to his family and his duty to his country. Men of Men is a powerful and moving account of the devastating impact of war on individuals and families. It is also a story of love, loss, and redemption. Sean must overcome his own personal demons in order to lead his family and his country through the darkest of times.
The Angels Weep (1982)
The Angels Weep is the third novel in Wilbur Smith’s The Courtney Family Saga. It tells the story of Saffron Courtney, a young woman growing up in South Africa in the early 20th century. Saffron is a strong and independent woman, and she is determined to make her own way in the world. But when her family is threatened by a ruthless businessman, Saffron must use all of her skills and cunning to protect them. The Angels Weep is a gripping and suspenseful novel that is full of twists and turns. It is also a story about the importance of family and the power of love to overcome evil. Saffron is a role model for young women everywhere, and her story is sure to inspire readers of all ages.
The Leopard Hunts in Darkness (1984)
The Leopard Hunts in Darkness is the fourth novel in Wilbur Smith’s The Courtney Family Saga. It tells the story of Mungo Courtney, Sean Courtney’s son, as he fights for his country in World War I. Mungo is a brave and compassionate young man, and he is determined to make a difference in the world. But when he is sent to the trenches of France, he is faced with the horrors of war firsthand. It is a powerful and moving account of the human cost of war. It is also a story about the importance of hope and the power of the human spirit to overcome even the darkest of times. Mungo Courtney is a true hero, and his story is sure to stay with readers long after they finish reading the book.
The Triumph of the Sun (1992)
The Triumph of the Sun is the fifth novel in Wilbur Smith’s The Courtney Family Saga. It tells the story of several generations of Courtneys as they navigate the challenges of life in South Africa in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Triumph of the Sun is a sweeping epic that brings to life the vibrant world of South Africa. It is a story of love, loss, and redemption.
King of Kings (2019)
King of Kings is the sixth novel in Wilbur Smith’s The Courtney Family Saga. It tells the story of two families, the Courtneys and the Ballantynes, as they navigate the dangers and opportunities of South Africa in the early 20th century. King of Kings is a sweeping epic that brings to life the vibrant world of South Africa. It is a story of love, loss, and redemption.
Call of the Raven (2020)
Call of the Raven is a collaborative novel by Wilbur Smith and Corban Addison. It tells the story of a young woman named Taita who is captured by slavers and sold into a life of servitude in ancient Egypt. Taita is a strong and resourceful woman, and she is determined to survive and escape from her captors. But when she falls in love with a powerful Egyptian warrior, she must choose between her love for him and her freedom.
Ancient Egypt Books
Wilbur Smith’s Ancient Egypt series takes readers to the majestic and enigmatic world of ancient Egypt, offering a rich tapestry of historical detail and imaginative storytelling. Set against the backdrop of the Nile River and the sprawling desert landscapes, these novels delve into the lives of pharaohs, priests, warriors, and slaves, capturing the essence of a civilization shrouded in mystery and grandeur. Through epic tales of power struggles, forbidden love, and dynastic ambitions, Smith brings to life the splendour and intrigue of one of the most fascinating periods in human history.
River God (1993)
River God is a sweeping epic that tells the story of Taita, a eunuch slave who rises to become a powerful and influential figure in ancient Egypt. Taita is a skilled healer, engineer, and statesman, and he is trusted by the Pharaoh himself. But when the Kingdom of Egypt is threatened by a powerful enemy, Taita must use all of his skills and cunning to save his people. River God is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is full of action, adventure, and romance. It is also a story about the importance of loyalty, courage, and perseverance. Taita is a complex and compelling character, and his journey is one that readers will never forget.
The Seventh Scroll (1995)
The Seventh Scroll is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that follows the adventures of Duraid al Simma and his wife Royan as they search for the lost tomb of Pharaoh Mamose, which is said to contain a treasure of untold value. Duraid and Royan are brilliant archaeologists, but they are also facing a deadly race against time, as a ruthless private collector is also on the hunt for the treasure. The Seventh Scroll is a gripping novel that is full of action, adventure, and mystery. It is also a story about the importance of love, courage, and determination. Duraid and Royan are complex and compelling characters, and their journey is one that readers will never forget.
Desert God (1996)
Desert God is the sequel to River God, and it continues the story of Taita as he navigates the dangerous and ever-changing world of ancient Egypt. Taita has now become the Pharaoh’s most trusted advisor, but he soon finds himself caught up in a power struggle between the Pharaoh and his enemies. Taita must use all of his skills and cunning to protect the Pharaoh and his kingdom. Desert God is a gripping and suspenseful novel that is full of intrigue, betrayal, and revenge. It is also a story about the importance of power and the dangers of corruption. Taita is once again forced to make difficult choices, and his journey is one that readers will find both fascinating and heartbreaking.
Pharaoh (1998)
Pharaoh is the third and final novel in Wilbur Smith’s Egyptian trilogy. It brings the story of Taita to a dramatic conclusion, as he must use all of his skills and cunning to defeat the Pharaoh’s enemies and save the Kingdom of Egypt. It is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is full of action, adventure, and romance. It is also a story about the importance of family, loyalty, and sacrifice. Taita is a true hero, and his journey is one that readers will never forget.
Warlock (2001)
Warlock tells the story of a young man named Tanus who is captured by slavers and sold into a life of servitude in ancient Egypt. Tanus is a skilled warrior and strategist, and he quickly becomes one of the most valuable slaves in his master’s possession. But when Tanus falls in love with a beautiful Egyptian woman, he must find a way to escape from his master’s clutches and win her freedom. It is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is full of action, adventure, and romance. It is also a story about the importance of courage, determination, and love. Tanus is a complex and compelling character, and his journey is one that readers will find both inspiring and heartbreaking.
The New Kingdom (2012)
The New Kingdom is a collaborative novel by Wilbur Smith and Mark Chadbourn. It is set in ancient Egypt during the reign of Akhenaten, a controversial pharaoh who introduced a new monotheistic religion to Egypt. The New Kingdom tells the story of Taita, a eunuch slave who rises to become one of the most powerful men in Egypt. The New Kingdom is a sweeping epic that brings to life the vibrant world of ancient Egypt. It is a story of intrigue, power, and betrayal. Taita is once again forced to make difficult choices, and his journey is one that readers will find both fascinating and heartbreaking.
Titans of War (2014)
Titans of War is the second novel in the Egyptian series by Wilbur Smith and Mark Chadbourn. It picks up the story of Taita several years after the events of The New Kingdom, and finds him caught up in a war between Egypt and the Hittite Empire. Taita must use all of his skills and cunning to help Egypt win the war, and to protect his loved ones from harm. It is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is full of action, adventure, and romance. It is also a story about the importance of leadership, courage, and sacrifice. Taita is a true hero, and his journey is one that readers will never forget.
Testament (2016)
Testament is the final novel in the Egyptian series by Wilbur Smith and Mark Chadbourn. It brings the story of Taita to a dramatic conclusion, as he must use all of his skills and cunning to defeat Egypt’s enemies and save the kingdom. It is a gripping and suspenseful novel that is full of action, adventure, and intrigue. It is also a story about the importance of family, loyalty, and redemption. Taita is a complex and compelling character, and his journey is one that readers will cherish long after they finish reading the book.
Hector Cross Books
The Hector Cross books revolve around the eponymous protagonist, Hector Cross, a former soldier turned security expert. Set against the backdrop of modern-day Africa, these novels are packed with high-stakes action, political intrigue, and personal vendettas. As Cross navigates through a world of danger and deception, readers are taken on adrenaline-fuelled journeys filled with suspense, betrayal, and the pursuit of justice in the face of formidable adversaries.
Those in Peril (2011)
Those in Peril is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that follows the adventures of Hector Cross, a former British SAS operative who now runs a private security company. Cross is hired to rescue the daughter of a wealthy oil tycoon who has been kidnapped by Somali pirates. Cross must use all of his skills and cunning to find the kidnappers and rescue the girl before it’s too late. Those in Peril is a gripping novel that is full of action, adventure, and intrigue. It is also a story about the importance of loyalty, courage, and determination. Cross is a complex and compelling character, and his journey is one that readers will never forget.
Vicious Circle (2012)
Vicious Circle is the sequel to Those in Peril, and it continues the adventures of Hector Cross. Cross is now on the run, having been framed for the murder of his employer. He must clear his name and find the real killer, all while evading the authorities and a ruthless assassin who is after him. It is a gripping and suspenseful novel that is full of action, adventure, and betrayal. It is also a story about the importance of justice and the power of redemption. Cross is once again forced to make difficult choices, and his journey is one that readers will find both fascinating and heartbreaking.
Predator (2018)
Predator is a collaborative novel by Wilbur Smith and Tom Cain. It is a standalone novel that tells the story of a group of mercenaries who are hired to hunt down a poacher who is killing endangered animals in Africa. The mercenaries soon find themselves caught up in a deadly game of cat and mouse, as the poacher is not only ruthless, but also highly skilled and intelligent. It is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is full of action, adventure, and danger. It is also a story about the importance of conservation and the devastating impact of poaching on endangered species. The mercenaries are a complex and compelling group of characters, and their journey is one that readers will find both exciting and thought-provoking.
Standalone Wilbur Smith Novels
Wilbur Smith’s standalone novels encompass a diverse array of settings, from the African continent to other parts of the world. Each standalone novel explores unique themes and characters, ranging from historical epics to contemporary thrillers. Despite their standalone nature, these novels typically feature Smith’s signature blend of adventure, romance, and vivid storytelling, offering readers immersive journeys into different time periods and cultures.
The Dark of the Sun / The Train from Katanga (1965)
The Dark of the Sun is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that follows the adventures of Captain Bruce Curry, a mercenary soldier who is hired to rescue a group of European hostages from a rebel-held town in the Belgian Congo. Curry and his team must travel through dangerous territory and face a variety of challenges, including rebel soldiers, wild animals, and a harsh environment.
Shout at the Devil (1968)
Shout at the Devil is a historical adventure novel by Wilbur Smith. It is set in South Africa during the Second Boer War, and it tells the story of two families, the Courtneys and the Moffat-Curries, who are caught up in the conflict.
Gold Mine (1970)
Gold Mine is a historical adventure novel. It is set in South Africa during the Gold Rush, and it tells the story of Sean Courtney, a young man who travels to South Africa to seek his fortune.
The Diamond Hunters (1974)
The Diamond Hunters is a historical adventure novel. It is set in South Africa during the Diamond Rush, and it tells the story of a group of men who are determined to find diamonds and make their fortune.
The Sunbird (1977)
The Sunbird is a historical adventure novel. It is set in South Africa during the early 20th century, and it tells the story of Mungo Courtney, a young man who is determined to avenge the death of his father.
Cry Wolf (1976)
Cry Wolf is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is set in Ethiopia during the Italian invasion of 1935. The novel follows the adventures of Jake Barton, an American engineer, and Gareth Swales, an English gun-runner, who are hired to deliver a consignment of armored cars to the Ethiopian army. Along the way, they must face a variety of challenges, including Italian soldiers, hostile tribes, and a beautiful journalist who is determined to report on the war.
Hungry as the Sea (1978)
Hungry as the Sea is a sweeping epic that tells the story of the Ballantyne family, a wealthy shipping dynasty in South Africa. The novel spans several generations, and it follows the Ballantynes as they navigate the challenges of life in South Africa, including the Boer Wars, the Great Depression, and World War II.
The Eye of the Tiger (1979)
The Eye of the Tiger is a historical adventure novel by Wilbur Smith. It is set in South Africa during the early 20th century, and it tells the story of Dirk Pitt, a young man who is determined to find a lost treasure.
Wild Justice / The Delta Decision (1979)
Wild Justice / The Delta Decision is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is set in the swamps of the Mississippi Delta. The novel follows the adventures of Courtney Kruger, a former mercenary soldier who is now living a quiet life as a fisherman. However, when his family is threatened by a ruthless drug lord, Kruger must use all of his skills and cunning to protect them.
Eagle in the Sky (1980)
Eagle in the Sky is a sweeping epic that tells the story of the Courtney family during World War I. The novel follows the adventures of Mungo Courtney, a young man who joins the Royal Flying Corps and becomes one of the most decorated aces of the war.
Elephant Song (1984)
Elephant Song is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is set in the African bush. The novel follows the adventures of Sean Courtney, a young man who is determined to protect the elephants of Africa from poachers. Along the way, he must face a variety of challenges, including ruthless poachers, corrupt government officials, and a beautiful woman who is torn between her love for Sean and her loyalty to her tribe.
The Quest (2007)
The Quest tells the story of a young woman named Meryt who is determined to find her lost brother. Meryt is a skilled archer and tracker, and she sets out on a perilous journey into the desert in search of him. Along the way, she must face many dangers, including wild animals, dangerous tribes, and ruthless bandits. But Meryt is determined to find her brother, no matter what the cost. The Quest is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that is full of action, adventure, and danger. It is also a story about the importance of family, loyalty, and perseverance. Meryt is a strong and resourceful woman, and her journey is one that readers will find both inspiring and heartbreaking.
Non-Fiction Wilbur Smith Books
Wilbur Smith’s nonfiction books primarily focus on his own life experiences, including his adventures in Africa and his insights into the craft of writing. Through memoirs and autobiographical works, Smith shares anecdotes and reflections on his upbringing, career, and travels. These nonfiction works offer readers a glimpse into the author’s fascinating life, as well as valuable lessons and inspirations gleaned from his personal journey as a writer and adventurer.
The Great Lion Hunters (1978) tells the stories of the great hunters who have stalked and killed lions in Africa. It includes accounts of the exploits of such legendary hunters as Frederick Courteney Selous, Harry Wolhuter, and Jim Corbett.
On Leopard Rock (1981) is a travelogue about Wilbur Smith’s journey to the Matobo Hills in Zimbabwe. He describes the landscape, the wildlife, and the people of the area.
The Courtneys: A Family Saga (1982) tells the story of the Courtney family, a fictional family who have been involved in the events of Southern Africa for over 200 years. It is a prequel to the Courtney series of novels.
The Flying Doctors: A Celebration of the Heroes of the Air (1986): This book is a tribute to the Flying Doctors, a medical service that provides air ambulance services to remote areas of Africa. It includes interviews with Flying Doctors pilots and doctors, as well as stories of their rescues.
The African Experience: An Anthology of Writing About Africa (1987): This is a collection of essays, short stories, and poems about Africa. It was edited by Wilbur Smith and includes contributions from such writers as Ernest Hemingway, Karen Blixen, and Nadine Gordimer.
River God: The Making of a Novel (1993) is a behind-the-scenes look at the writing of Wilbur Smith’s novel River God. It includes his notes, research, and outlines for the novel.
The Seventh Scroll: A Novel in Facts and Fiction (2001): This book is a fictionalized account of the discovery of a seventh scroll of the Dead Sea Scrolls. It explores the possibility that the scrolls contain secrets that could change our understanding of history.
Wilbur Smith on Africa: A Personal Journey (2008) is a collection of Wilbur Smith’s essays and articles about Africa. It includes his thoughts on the continent’s history, culture, and wildlife.
A Writer’s Life: An Autobiography (2016) is Wilbur Smith’s autobiography. He tells the story of his life from his childhood in South Africa to his success as a novelist.
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And that’s all Wilbur Smith books, by category and in order of publication. Did you have any idea Wilbur Smith wrote quite so many books?